UNIVERSITY  OF  ILLINOIS 
LIBRARY 


Class 


Book 


Volume 


^<^Q,."5   n5bc\ 


My  0S-15M 


A  DIGEST 


ot   the 


Rebekan  La^ws  of  Illinois 


Codified  by 

FRED  B.  MERRILLS,  P.  G.  M. 


Published  by  the 

R^eDekan  State   Assembly   of  Illinois 


"IG  4. 


ppESS  OP 


PREFACE. 


When  the  editor  of  this  work  was  engaged  in 
preparing  the  Code  of  1906,  he  asked  the  then  Presi- 
dent of  the  Rebekah  Assembly,  Sister  Lola  Rickard, 
to  assist  him  in  some  detail  relating  to  the  Rebekah 
portion  thereof.  This  conference  led  to  the  sug- 
gestion by  Sister  Rickard  that  there  be  a  Code  pre- 
pared and  published  by  the  Assembly  which  would 
be  especially  arranged  for  the  use  of  Rebekah 
Lodges.  This  idea  was  presented  to  the  Assembly 
at  the  Session  of  1905  by  Sister  Rickard  in  her  re- 
port, and  the  Committee  on  Legislation  reported  in 
its  favor,  which  report  was  adopted.  Thereupon 
a  motion  was  made  and  carried  that  the  President 
appoint  a  Special  Committee,  with  herself  as  Chair- 
man, to  prepare  and  have  printed  a  Code  "to  be 
composed  of  the  laws  for  Rebekah  Lodges  only." 

Under  the  authority  of  this  motion,  a  Special 
Committee  was  appointed  consisting  of  Sisters  Lola 
L.  Rickard,  P.  P.;  Martha  J.  VanDuzer,  P.  P.; 
Nellie  L.  Harris,  P.  P. ;  V.  Catherine  Thomas,  P.  P., 
and  May  D.  Stone,  P.  P.,  (see  Assembly  Journal 
1905,  p.  2410,  2436,  2493.)  Subsequently  Sister  Ida 
M.  Kewley  was  added  to  the  Committee  to  fill  a 
vacancy  caused  by  the  resignation  of  Sister  May  D. 
Stone,  (Assembly  Journal  1906,  p.  2727.) 

Section  1  of  Article  VIII  of  the  Rebekah  Lodge 
Constitution  provides  that  "The  Laws  of  the  Sub- 


ordinate  Lodge  and  the  decisions  thereon  by  the 
Grand  and  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge,  shall,  so  far  as 
applicable,  control  in  the  government  of  this  Re- 
bekah  Lodge  in  all  cases  not  specially  provided 
(for)  by  the  laws  of  the  Rebekah  Branch  of  the 
Order." 

While  this  constitntional  provision  is  quite 
plain,  it  has  been  found  difTicult  of  application  by 
the  inexperienced.  Hence  it  was  deemed  wise  to 
make  the  experiment  of  codifying  the  laws  applic- 
able to  the  Rebekah  Lodges  for  the  use  of  Rebekah 
Lodges,  in  the  same  manner  in  which  they  had  been 
codified  for  the  use  of  the  Subordinate  Lodges.  To 
have  included  this  special  codification  in  the  "Code 
of  1906,"  would  have  necessitated  a  very  large 
amount  of  repetition,  and  would  have  materially 
increased  the  size  of  that  work,  and  delayed  its  pub- 
lication ;  hence  the  other  alternative  of  publishing 
a  separate  book. 

In  arrangement  and  typography  this  book  is  of 
the  same  general  style  and  character  as  the  Code 
of  1906.  While  it  takes  years  of  practical  use  to 
fully  determine  the  value  of  a  book,  the  favorable 
comments  on  the  Code  of  1906  would  seem  to  in- 
dicate the  wisdom  of  following  the  same  plan  in  the 
present  work. 

No  book  can  contain  all  the  laws  applicable  to 
any  branch  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  it  is  not  claimed 
that  the  present  work  contains  all  the  law  applicable 
to  Rebekah  Lodges.  But  it  contains  enough  of  the 
law  to  enable  Lodges  to  conduct  their  business 
along  lines  of  well-established  precedent.  The  Code 
of  1906  has  been  largely  drawn  from,  and  the  late 


Journals  have  been  carefully  digested,  and  the  de- 
cisions and  legislation  found  therein  have  been  in- 
cluded in  the  present  work. 

The  general  law  of  the  Order  is  to  be  sought 
for  in  different  places.  First,  in  the  secret  work 
of  the  Order,  part  of  which  is  written  and  part  un- 
written. By  the  written  work  is  meant  the  Rituals. 
Second,  in  the  Journals  of  the  Sovereign  Grand 
Lodge.  Third,  in  the  Constitution,  By-Laws  and 
Rules  of  Order  of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge, 
which  have  been  compiled  mostly  from  the  Journals. 
Fourth,  in  the  first  Digest  of  its  laws,  known  as  the 
Griffin  Digest,  or  the  Digest  of  1847.  This  Digest 
differs  from  all  other  Digests,  because  it  was  de- 
clared to  be  itself  law  by  action  recorded  in  the 
Journal  of  1847,  page  1094.  Fifth,  all  the  later  Di- 
gests of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge,  notably  those 
of  Past  Grand  Sires,  White  and  Busbee.  These 
Digests,  however,  are  inferior  in  authority  to  the 
Digest  of  1847,  as  they  are  declared  to  be  mere 
compilations.  An  enactment  of  the  Sovereign  Grand 
Lodge,  since  the  Digest  of  1847,  is  law,  even  though 
it  be  not  found  in  the  later  Digests.  Sixth,  in  long, 
and  well-established  usage  and  custom,  which  is, 
to  some  extent,  recognized  as  a  source  of  law. 

The  Journals  of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge 
contain  the  Constitution,  By-Laws  and  Rules  of 
Order  of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge,  and  amend- 
ments thereto;  forms  and  ceremonies  ;  general  forms 
for  use  in  the  transaction  of  the  business  of  the 
Order;  decisions  of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge  on 
questions  of  law  and  appealed  cases,  and  laws  of 
general  application.  They  do  not  contain  any  part 
of  the  secret  work.  Said  Journals  are  numbered 
and  paged  as  follows : 


Vol. 

Sessions 

Pages 

I, 

from 

1821 

to 

1846, 

inclusive 

1 

to        972, 

inclusive 

II. 

1847 

1852, 

inclusive 

1007 

"      1966, 

inclusive 

Ill, 

1853 

1857, 

inclusive 

1981 

"      2832, 

inclusive 

IV. 

1858 

1862, 

inclusive 

2849 

"      3506, 

inclusive 

V, 

1863 

1867, 

inclusive 

3507 

"      4228, 

inclusive 

VI, 

1868 

1870, 

inclusive 

4231 

"      4938, 

inclusive 

VII, 

1871 

1873, 

inclusive 

4965 

"      5967, 

inclusive 

VIII, 

of 

1874 

and 

1875, 

inclusive 

5971 

"      6733, 

inclusive 

IX, 

from 

1876 

to 

1878, 

inclusive 

6737 

"      7900, 

inclusive 

X, 

1879 

' ' 

1881, 

inclusive 

7903 

"      8826, 

inclusive 

XI, 

1882 

' ' 

1884, 

inclusive 

8829 

'      9846, 

inclusive 

XII, 

of 

1885 

and 

1886, 

inclusive 

9849 

"    10696, 

inclusive 

XIII, 

1887 

' ' 

1888, 

inclusive 

10099 

"    11468, 

inclusive 

XIV, 

1889 

" 

1890, 

inclusive 

11471 

"    12338, 

incljusive 

XV, 

1891 

' ' 

1892, 

inclusive 

12341 

"    13235, 

inclusive 

XVI, 

1893 

' ' 

1834, 

inclusive 

13239 

"    14246, 

inclusive 

XVII, 

1895 

" 

1896, 

inclusive 

14229 

"    15151, 

inclusive 

XVIII, 

1897 

• ' 

1898, 

inclusive 

15155 

"    16231, 

inclusive 

XIX, 

1899 

" 

1900, 

inclusive 

1 

"      102  6, 

inclusive 

XX, 

1901 

' ' 

1902, 

inclusive 

1 

"      1069, 

inclusive 

XXI. 

1903 

' ' 

1904, 

inclusive 

1 

942, 

inclusive 

XXII, 

1905 

' ' 

1906, 

inclusive 

1 

870, 

inclusive 

XXIII, 

1907 

1 

384, 

inclusive 

The  first  eighteen  volumes  are  cited  only  by- 
pages.  All  subsequent  volumes  are  cited  both  by 
the  number  of  the  volume  and  by  the  page.  In  all 
citations,  the  Roman  numerals  allude  to  the  volume 
and  the  Arabic  numerals  to  the  page. 

The  local  law  is  to  be  found  in  the  Journals  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  in  its  Acts  of  Incor- 
poration, in  its  Constitution,  By-Laws  and  Rules  of 
Order,  in  the  uniform  Constitutions  Avhich  it  has 
prescribed  for  the  Subordinates  under  its  jurisdic- 
tion, in  the  decisions  of  its  Committee  on  Judiciary 
and  Appeals,  and  in  its  Digests.  The  volumes  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  Journals  are  numbered  with  refer- 
ence to  the  several  sessions  as  follows : 


Vol. 


I,      Sessions  from   1838 

to      1852, 

nclusive 

II, 

1853 

"      1857, 

nclasive 

III, 

'       1858 

"      1865, 

nclusive 

IV, 

'       1866 

"      1870, 

nclusive 

V, 

1871 

"      1875, 

nclusive 

VI, 

'       1876 

"      1880, 

nclusive 

VII, 

1881 

"      1885, 

nclusive 

VIII, 

'       1886 

"      1890, 

nclusive 

IX, 

1891 

"      1894, 

nclusive 

X,             "           ( 

if       1895 

and  1896, 

nclusive 

XI, 

1897 

"      1898, 

nclusive 

XII, 

'       1899 

"      1900, 

nclusive 

XIII, 

1901 

"      1902, 

nclusive 

XIV, 

'       1903 

"      1904, 

nclusive 

XV, 

'       1905 

"      1906, 

nclusive 

XVI, 

'       1907 

The  paging  of  the  Grand  Lodge  Journals  is  not 
consecutive  from  one  volume  to  another,  nor  from 
one  year  to  another.  With  the  exception  of  Volume 
II,  the  paging  of  the  first  nine  volumes  begins  with 
one  and  continues  consecutively  to  the  end  of  the 
volume.  In  Volume  II,  and  in  all  other  volumes 
subsequent  to  Volume  IX,  a  new  series  of  paging 
is  begun  for  each  Annual  Session,  hence,  in  citing 
these  Journals,  it  is  necessary  to  give  either  the 
number  of  the  volume  or  the  year,  together  with 
the  page. 

The  Grand  Lodge  has  adopted  three  Digests. 
The  first  is  entitled,  "Code  of  the  Laws  of  the  I.  O. 

0.  F.  for  Illinois,"  compiled  by  Past  Grand  Repre- 
sentative, Samuel  Willard.  This  Code  was  adopted 
in  1881  (see  J.  VII,  p.  115)  as  the  law  of  the  juris- 
diction. The  second  Code  is  entitled,  "Illinois  Code 
of  1896,"  compiled  by  Charles  S.  Thornton  (J.  1896, 
p.  340.)     The  third  is  entitled,  "The  Code  of  1906, 

1.  O.  O.  F." 

The  following  abbreviations  appear  in  the  body 
of  this  work : 

S.  J.  "Journal  of  Proceedings,  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge." 
J.  "Proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois." 

B.  "Busbee's  Digest  of  1903." 
W.  "Code  of  1881  by  Samuel  Willard,  P.  G.  R." 

T.  "Illinois  Code  of  1896  by  Charles  S.  Thornton." 

The  author  desires  to  acknowledge  his  indebted- 
ness to  the  Code  Committee,  and  to  the  Ofificers 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  who  have  assisted  him 
so  materially  in  his  labors. 

The  printing  and  binding  has  been  done  under 
the  direction  and  supervision  of  the  Printing  Com- 
mittee, composed  of  Sisters  V.  Catherine  Thomas, 
P.  P.,  Effie  A.  Glazier,   P.  P.,  and  Eliza  Ridgeley. 


As  the  general  scheme  of  the  work  was  to  in- 
clude only  a  part  of  the  law  of  the  Order,  it  may 
not  come  up  to  the  expectations  of  some.  Yet  the 
author  speaks  for  its  favorable  consideration,  and 
trusts  that  it  may  in  a  large  measure  fulfill  the  pur- 
pose for  which  it  has  been  designed. 

FRED  B.  MERRILLS. 

Belleville,  Illinois,  August  15,  1908. 


R.  L.  I,  §1. 


CONSTITUTION 

( FOR  REBEKAH  LODGES  ) 


ARTICLE  I.— TITLE  AND  MEETINGS.    .  ■ 

L     INDISPENSABLE   NUMBER   AND 

TITLE.— Section  1.— This  Lodge  shall  be  consti- 
tuted by  not  less  than  five  members,  irrespective  of 
sex,  including  one  qualified  to  preside  at  its  meet- 
ings, and  shall  be  hailed  and  entitled 

Rebekah  Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  of  the 

State  of  Illinois.     (J.  1895,  p.  199.) 

2.  Under  the  Rebekah  Code,  Rebekah  Lodges  have  powers  and 
privileges  subject  to  the  general  regulations  of  the  Order  and  the 
regulations  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  v^hich  they  are  subordinate,  to 
confer  the  Rebekah  Degree  on  properly  qualified  candidates;  to  elect 
their  own  officers;  to  fix  and  establish  initiation  fees  and  dues;  to 
fix  the  time  when  such  fees  and  dues  are  to  be  paid;  to  suspend 
from  membership  those  who  are  in  arrears  for  one  year's  dues;  to 
pay  and  disburse  the  funds  as  the  majority  of  the  members  present 
may  determine  for  any  of  the  declared  purposes  of  the  Degree,  and 
to  establish  such  laws  and  Rules  of  Order  as  are  not  inconsistent 
with  the  Code,  or  with  the  General  Law,  as  they  may  deem  proper, 
subject  to  the  approval  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  which  they  are  sub- 
ordinate. See  Rebekah  Code,  Sections  14  to  19,  both  inclusive. 
—  (Editor.) 

3.  Rebekah  Lodges  shall  not  be  chartered  by  the 
name  of  any  living  person.  (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  5.) 
Charters  are  issued  to  the  Rebekah  Assembly  and  the 
Rebekah  Lodges  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  Such  charters  to 
be  in  the  form  prescribed,  and  on  the  blanks  furnished  by 
the  S.  G.  L.     (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  21.) 

4.  The  Grand  Lodge  issues  charters,  and  may  re- 
quire more  than  five  applicants  for  a  charter  for  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509,  827,  873;  S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  848,  Sec.  I,  Art.  VIII,  G.  L.  Const.  J.  1906,  p.  186,  34L) 

5.  The  President  and  Secretary  of  a  Rebekah  As- 
sembly are  not  required  to  sign  the  charters  for  new 
Rebekah  Lodges,  nor  has  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  juris- 
diction the  right  to  so  require.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  37,  361,  371, 
372.) 


R.  L.  I,  §1. 10 

6.  Assemblies  cannot  institute  Rebekah  Lodges. 
Grand  Lodges  cannot  confer  upon  Rebekah  Assemblies 
power  to  institute  and  charter  Rebekah  Lodges.  They  are 
clothed  by  ^^ction  2  (Code)  with  special  power,  the  time 
and^  pl^ce',  for  "exercising  which  is  left  to  their  judgment. 
'Suih 'power  cannot  be  delegated.  (S.  J.  14240,  14487, 
14.S70.7        •     ■ 

7.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  give  to  its  Rebekah  As- 
sembly power  to  charter  Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  14674, 
14948,  15019.) 

8.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  give  its  Rebekah  As- 
sembly power  to  revoke  the  charter  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge, 
or  disturb  a  Lodge  in  possession  of  chartered  rights. 
(S.  J.  14678,  14948,  15019.) 

9.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  transfer  from  the  Grand 
Master  to  the  President  of  a  Rebekah  Assembly  the 
power  to  reclaim  the  charter,  books  and  effects  and  of 
a  Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J.  14679,  14948,  15019.) 

10.  In  the  absence  of  any  local  law  governing  the 
restoration  of  Lodges,  the  Grand  Master  has  no  authority 
during  the  recess  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  restore  the 
name,  charter,  and  effects  of  a  suspended  Lodge  to  five 
or  more  petitioners  of  such  Lodge.  Nor  may  a  new  char- 
ter be  granted  such  suspended  Lodge  upon  the  petition 
of  five  or  more  members  of  said  Lodge  and  the  effects  of 
said  suspended  Lodge  be  restored  to  it.  If  the  Lodge  has 
been  closed  by  the  preceeding  Grand  Master  and  his  ac- 
tion approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  Grand  Master  in 
office  is  not  authorized  to  set  aside  the  action  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.  He  has  authority  to  grant  a  dispensation 
for  a  new  Lodge,  and  may  allow  the  use  of  the  same  name 
and  number.  In  this  new  Lodge  such  members  may  con- 
stitute charter  members  as  may  be  approved  by  the  Grand 
Master.     (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  32,  219,  239,  253.) 

11.  There  is  no  law  under  which  the  Grand  Lodge 
may  grant  the  power  to  the  President  of  the  Rebekah 
Assembly  to  restore  an  arrested  charter.  (S.  J.  XXIII, 
p.  44,  219,  239,  253.) 

12.  The  Grand  Lodge  is  permitted  to  enact  such  legis- 
lation as  will  allow  the  President  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly 
to  receive  petitions  for  dispensations  and  charters  for  the 
institution    of    subordinate    Rebekah    Lodges,    and    grant 


11  R.  L.  I,  §1. 

same  and  institute  new  Rebekah  Lodges  subject  to  the  ap- 
proval of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  under  such  regulations  as 
may  be  prescribed  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XXH, 
p.  716,  767,  781.) 

13  The  charter  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  be  sur- 
rendered, nor  can  the  Lodge  be  compelled  to  consolidate 
with  another  while  the  minimum  number  of  its  members 
required  by  law  to  petition  for  a  charter  are  willing  and 
desirous  of  retaining  the  charter.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509, 
827,  873.) 

14.  There  is  no  law  to  prevent  the  members  of  a 
Subordinate  Lodge  from  organizing  two  or  more  Rebekah 
Lodges  from  among  its  membership.  But  in  case  two  Re- 
bekah Lodges  are  organized  from  the  same  Subordinate 
Lodge,  both  should  be  accorded  the  same  privileges  by 
the  Subordinate  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  31,  365,  394.) 

15.  In  a  jurisdiction  where  a  Rebekah  Assembly  is 
instituted,  all  Rebekah  Lodges  therein  are  controlled  by 
the  same,  to  the  extent  that  power  is  delegated  to  it  by 
the  Grand  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  35,  284,  314.)  All  Rebekah 
Lodges  are  instituted  by  authority  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
(Rebekah  Code,  Section  2.)  The  instituting  ofificer  may 
be  the  Grand  Master,  or  any  Past  Grand  or  Past  Noble 
Grand  who  is  in  good  standing  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge. 
(Rebekah  Code,  Section  3.) 

16.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  adopt  the  christian 
or  surname  of  a  living  individual,  when  it  is  so  adopted 
as  an  honor  to  such  living  individual.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  31, 
284,  314.) 

17.  All  seals  used  by  Rebekah  Lodges  should  bear 
the  legal  designation  "Rebekah  Lodge,"  and  not  that  of 
"Degree  of  Rebekah,"  "D.  of  R.,"  etc.  (S.  J.  15754,  16071, 
16116.) 

18.  When  a  Lodge  wishes  to  change  its  name  on  re- 
quest in  writing  by  ten  members  of  the  Lodge,  the  Noble 
Grand  shall  direct  the  Secretary  to  send  written  notices 
under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge  to  all  members  of  the  Lodge 
that  the  question  of  changing  the  name  of  the  Lodge  will 
be  considered  at  a  stated  meeting.  Notices  to  be  mailed 
at  least  ten  days  before  the  meeting,  at  which  the  ques- 
tion is  to  be  considered.     If  two-thirds   of  the  members 


R.  L.  I,  §1.  12 

present  vote  for  the  change  of  the  name,  the  Noble  Grand 
shall  direct  the  Secretary  to  report  such  vote  and  the 
name  selected  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge  to  the  Grand 
Master,  who,  in  his  discretion,  may  issue  a  dispensation 
to  such  Lodge  permitting  it  to  use  the  new  name,  the 
seal  of  the  Lodge  being  changed  to  correspond  with  the 
new  name,  subject  to  the  approval  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
at  its  next  regular  session.  Upon  approval  by  the  Grand 
Lodge,  the  Lodge  shall  forward  its  charter  to  the  Grand 
Secretary  to  have  such  name  properly  endorsed  upon  its 
charter.     (J.   1907,  p.  351,  352,  363.) 

19.  The  Grand  Lodges  subordinate  to  the  S.  G.  L. 
are  hereby  authorized  and  empowered  to  institute  Rebekah 
Lodges  at  such  places  as  they  may  deem  proper  within 
their  territorial  limits,  and  during  the  recess  of  such 
Grand  Lodges  the  Grand  Masters  are  hereby  authorized 
to  grant  dispensations  for  the  institution  of  such  Rebekah 
Lodges,  subject,  however,  to  the  approval  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  at  its  next  session.  A  Grand  Master  shall  be  the 
installing  officer,  who  may,  however,  appoint  for  that 
purpose  any  Past  Grand  or  Past  Noble  Grand  who  is  in 
good  standing  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (Rebekah  Code, 
Section  213;  S.  J.  XXIH,  p.  250,  299,  309.) 

20.  Under  the  act  of  the  legislature  incorporating 
the  Grand  Lodge  and  the  Subordinates  belonging  thereto, 
approved  February  8,  1849,  the  Supreme  Court  of  Illinois 
held  that  suit  in  behalf  of  the  Lodge  should  be  brought 
in  the  name  of  its  Trustees.  (Marsh  vs.  Astoria  Lodge 
No.   112,  27th  Illinois,  421.) 

2L  By  Section  1  of  the  Act  amending  the  Articles 
of  Incorporation,  approved  February  16,  1865,  it  is  pro- 
vided that  suits  to  recover  the  property  of  the  Lodge 
may  be  brought  in  the  name  of  the  Lodge. 

22.  A  suit  cannot  be  brought  against  the  Lodge,  but 
must  be  brought  against  its  Trustees.  (Sec.  5,  Act  of 
Incorporation.) 

POWERS  OF  A  LODGE: 

23.  Lodges  derive  their  powers  from  the  authority 
which  created  them,  and  are  restricted  to  the  exercise  of 
those  conferred  by  their  charters  and  the  laws  of  the 
several    Grand    Lodges    under    which    they    exist.      They 


13  R.  L.  I,  §1. 

have  no  legislative  power  whatever  except  to  make 
by-laws  and  rules  of  order  for  their  own  internal  govern- 
ment, which  must  conform  to  the  laws  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  its  jurisdiction  and  to  those  of  the  S.  G.  L. 
(U.  S.  Digest  1847,  p.  47;  S.  J.  1235,  3415,  3463,  1724,  1797, 
1786,  1807.) 

24.  A  Lodge  may  lease  its  property  for  any  legiti- 
mate purpose.  When  it  owns  a  three-story  building,  and 
the  third  story  only  is  used  for  Lodge  purposes,  the  other 
two  stories  may  be  rented  and  used  for  any  legitimate 
business  without  a  violation  of  the  law,  excluding  all 
spirituous,  vinous  and  malt  liquors  from  the  Lodge  room 
and  ante-rooms  or  halls  connected  with  or  adjoining 
thereto.     (S.  J.  8839,  9025,  9101;  See  §  39  and  §  53   infra.) 

25.  When  a  Lodge  disregards  the  law  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  or  a  provision  of  its  Constitution,  yet  acts  in  ac- 
cordance with  the  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  it  is  not  subject 
to  punishment  by  the  State  Grand  Body.  But  it  would 
violate  a  law  of  its  Grand  Body  at  its  peril,  and,  of 
course,  the  State  Grand  Body  would  be  the  proper  tri- 
bunal to  judge  of  such  violation.  But  if  such  Lodge  acted 
in  accordance  with  the  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  the  latter 
would,  on  appeal,  be  protected.     (S.  J.  3109,  3124.) 

26.  It  is  the  duty  of  a  Lodge  and  its  officers  to  obey 
and  enforce  the  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  anything  in  the 
Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  or  Subordinate  Lodge 
to  the  contrary  notwithstanding.  (S.  J.  10254,  10487, 
10511.) 

27.  The  right  of  Lodges  to  re-elect  their  officers  is 
under  the  control  of  the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  4182,  4200.) 

28.  Lodge  libraries  are  a  necessity  to  the  Order  and 
should  be  by  all  means  encouraged.  Funds  of  Lodges 
may  be  appropriated  for  that  purpose.  The  manner  and 
measure  of  such  appropriations  are  proper  subjects  for 
local  legislation.  Members  cannot  be  taxed  to  support 
them.     (S.  J.  6985,  7054,  7381,  7474.) 

29.  It  has  been  a  well  established  practice  with  the 
S.  G.  L.  to  recognize  the  power  of  a  Lodge  over  its  finan- 
cial afifairs  as  a  delicate,  sacred  and  highly  cherished  pre- 
rogative, but  the  S.  G.  L.  will  not  permit  a  Lodge,  even 
with  the  approval  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction, 


R.  L.  I.  §■ 14 

to  loan  funds  without  ample  security  and  reasonable  in- 
terest. (S.  J.  2496,  2520,  10865,  10911,  10928,  11897,  12192, 
12276,  14433,  14461.) 

30.  If  a  Lodge,  on  being  instructed  by  the  Grand 
Master  to  cease  violating  the  law,  complies,  there  is  no 
law  which  forbids  it  from  doing  so  under  protest.  (S.  J. 
11100,  11368,  11396.) 

31.  There  is  no  law  to  prevent  a  Lodge  from  pro- 
testing against  the  instructions  of  a  Grand  Master,  where 
the  Lodge  is  clearly  of  the  opinion  that  the  instructions 
are  wrong.  While  a  Lodge  would  have  no  right  to  dis- 
regard the  instructions  of  a  Grand  Master,  and  while  it 
would  be  its  duty  to  obey  them,  yet  the  right  to  respect- 
fully protest  should  not  and  cannot  be  taken  away.  (S.  J. 
11719,  11769.) 

32.  The  matter  of  using  the  funds  of  a  Lodge  for 
the  purpose  of  paying  for  the  services  of  their  officers  is 
one  which  properly  belongs  to  the  legislation  of  the  re- 
spective State  District  and  Territorial  Grand  Bodies. 
(S.  J.  3117,  3124.) 

33.  One  Lodge  may  sue  another  in  the  civil  courts, 
unless  inhibited  by  its  Grand  Lodge  Constitution,  as  there 
is  no  general  law  forbidding  it.     (S.  J.  15164,  15534,  15584.) 

34.  Question — Has  a  Lodge  authority  to  issue  and 
sell  bonds  to  its  members  to  raise  money  to  purchase  a 
building  site  and  erect  thereon  a  building  containing  a 
hall  for  Lodge  purposes? 

Answer — The  rights  given  by  our  special  charter  from 
the  State,  while  not  providing  for  such  bond  issue,  is 
apparently  broad  enough  to  permit  it.  The  usage  of  the 
Order  has  been  to  make  such  purchases  and  erect  such 
buildings,  securing  any  indebtedness  by  notes  or  mort- 
gages. The  issue  of  bonds  would  be  but  another  form 
of  like  indebtedness,  and  therefore  permissible.  (J.  1901, 
p.  13,  319.) 

36.  When  fines  are  properly  and  legally  assessed 
against  a  member,  the  Lodge  has  no  right  to  remit  them. 
And  when  an  officer  is,  under  the  By-Laws,  fined  for 
absence,  the  Lodge  may  not  remit  the  fine.  (J.  Ill,  p. 
485,  515;  J.  V.,  p.  25.) 


15 R.  L.  I,  §1. 

ILLEGAL  ACTS  OF  A  LODGE: 

37.  Lodges  may  not  assemble  in  convention  for  the 
purpose  of  legislating  or  effecting  legislation  concerning 
the  Order  or  the  Grand  Lodge  without  the  consent  of 
the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  1786,  1807.) 

38.  A  Lodge  may  not  adopt  a  resolution  requiring 
that  the  "Union  Label"  be  placed  on  all  local  printing  of  the 
Lodge,  and  the  placing  of  the  "Union  Label"  upon  all  the 
letter  heads  of  the  Lodge,  which  letter  heads  also  contain 
the  name  and  number  of  the  Lodge,  its  location  and  nights 
of  meeting  and  emblems  of  the  Order  is  a  violation  of 
Section  471  of  Busbee's  Digest  of  1903.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  435,  675,  709.) 

39.  A  Lodge  shall  not  lease  any  part  of  its  Lodge 
property  or  property  in  its  control  directly  or  indirectly, 
to  any  person  or  persons  to  be  used  as  a  saloon,  or  place 
to  dispense  intoxicants  and  beverages  to  be  drunk  then 
and  there  on  the  premises.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  759,  791,  812.) 

40.  A  Lodge  or  its  members  may  not  hoist  a  political 
banner  or  flag  upon  the  Lodge  room  or  make  or  partake 
in  any  political  demonstrations  whatever.  (J.  Ill,  p.  157, 
158,  193.) 

41.  And  the  Lodge  has  no  right  to  declare  any  man 

a  proper  or  improper  person  for  any  public  office.     (J.  VI, 

p.  78,  106.) 

This  decision  was  made  by  Grand  Master  Oberly,  and  was  re- 
ferred to  the  Judiciary  Committee,  but  it  does  not  appear  that  the 
Judiciary  Committee  reported  on  it,  or  that  it  was  approved  by  the 
Grand  Lodge. — (Editor.) 

42.  A  Lodge  may  not  work  in  any  other  language 
than  the  one  assigned  to  it  when  it  was  instituted,  if 
there  are  other  Lodges  in  the  same  town  working  in 
different  languages.  But  a  Lodge  working  regularly  in 
one  language  may  use  rituals  in  another  language,  when 
this  latter  is  not  the  language  of  some  other  Lodge  of  the 
same  town.     (J.  V,  p.  572;  J.  VI,  p.  1026.) 

43.  A  Lodge  should  not  ask  advice  or  counsel  from 
any  other  source  than  its  own  Grand  Lodge.  (U.  S. 
Digest  of  1847,  p.  47.) 

44.  No  Lodge  or  any  of  the  members  thereof  shall 
in  the  name  of  the  Order  resort  to  any  scheme  of  raffles, 
lotteries,  gift  enterprises,  or  scheme  of  hazard  or  chance 
of  any  kind  as  a  means  of  raising  funds  for  any  purpose 


R.  L.  I,  §1.  16 

of  relief  or  assistance   to   other   Lodges   or   to   individual 
members.     (S.  J.  3953,  3988.) 

45.  No  circular  may  be  issued  or  distributed  by  any 
Lodge  of  this  jurisdiction  without  the  written  consent  of 
the  Grand  Master.  (J.  VI,  p.  627.) 

46.  It  is  not  within  the  jurisdiction  of  one  Lodge  to 
try  the  members  of  another,  much  less  to  declare  a  sen- 
tence of  exclusion  without  a  trial.  The  only  proper  course 
for  a  Lodge  or  member  to  pursue,  in  cases  where  mem- 
bers of  other  Lodges  are  regarded  unworthy,  is  to  prefer 
charges  against  them,  in  pursuance  of  the  well  established 
laws  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  2759,  2783.) 

47.  A  Lodge  may  not  entertain  any  application  for 
pecuniary  aid  or  assistance  unless  the  same  be  authorized 
by  the  Grand  Lodge  or  its  principal  officer,  in  accordance 
with  the  form  prescribed  for  such  purpose  by  the  S.  G.  L. 
(S.  J.  4467,  4598,  4614.) 

48.  The  existing  law  provides:  "No  Lodge  may  en- 
tertain any  application  for  pecuniary  aid  or  assistance, 
under  whatever  scheme  it  may  be  presented,  unless  the 
same  be  authorized."  This  language  is  broad  enough  to 
cover  the  sale  of  tickets  as  a  scheme  to  raise  funds.  No 
officer  or  member  shall  sell  any  tickets  sent  to  him  from 
any  other  Lodge  for  such  purpose.     (J.  VII,  p.  275,  297.) 

49.  It  is  not  legal  to  allow  a  call  for  aid  from  the 
Lodges  to  assist  those  who  are  suffering  from  a  foreign 
war  and  who  are  not  members  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  14686, 
14948,  15019.) 

50.  The  Grand  Sire  cannot  authorize  a  Lodge  under 
the  sole  jurisdiction  of  the  S.  G.  L.  to  apply  to  Lodges 
working  under  a  State  jurisdiction  for  aid  and  relief, 
without  first  having  obtained  the  consent  of  the  Grand 
Master  of  such  jurisdiction  to  make  such  application. 
(S.  J.  9022,  9100.) 

51.  The  Grand  Lodge  discourages  appeals  for  aid 
from  Brothers  and  Lodges  in  case  of  loss  or  damage  by 
fire.  A  Lodge  may  not  ask  aid  for  its  individual  members, 
or  send  its  own  members  or  the  widows  of  its  deceased 
members  to  other  places  to  ask  aid  of  the  Order.  (J.  Ill, 
p.  507.  512;  J.  IV.  p.  313;  J.  VL  p.  341.) 


17  R.  L.  I,  §1. 


FESTIVITIES: 


52.  In  all  cases  where  a  Lodge  desires  to  have  a 
ball,  festival  or  other  entertainment  in  the  name  of  the 
Order,  and  makes  due  application  to  the  Grand  Master 
for  a  dispensation,  such  Lodge  shall  satisfy  the  Grand 
Master  in  such  application  that  it  has  been  fully  indem- 
nified against  any  and  all  loss  or  liability  by  or  through 
such  ball,  festival  or  other  entertainment.  The  Grand 
Master  may  require  such  form  of  indemnity  as  in  his 
opinion  will  protect  the  Lodge  from  loss.  (J.  VL  p.  125, 
1012.) 

53.  All  spirituous,  vinous  and  malt  liquors  shall  be 
excluded  from  the  Lodge  rooms  and  ante-rooms  or  halls 
connected  with  or  adjoining  thereto,  when  under  the  con- 
trol of  any  Subordinate  Lodge.  Every  provision  in  con- 
flict with  this  law,  as  well  as  all  regulations  heretofore 
passed  respecting  the  use  of  edibles,  are  repealed.  (S.  J. 
6198,  6222.) 

54.  No  Association  or  League  composed  of  delegates 
selected  from  a  given  number  of  Rebekah  Lodges  has 
any  right  to  conduct  entertainments,  etc.,  without  a  dis- 
pensation from  the  Grand  Master.  No  raffle  can  be  con- 
ducted in  the  name  of  the  Order.  A  dispensation  cannot 
be  granted  for  that  purpose.  A  rummage  sale  might  be 
conducted  provided  a  dispensation  has  been  granted  by 
the  proper  Grand  Officer.  (S.  J.  XXIH,  p.  32,  219,  239, 
253.) 

55.  A  Lodge  securing  a  dispensation  for  a  certain 
social  function  may  not,  without  permission  of  the  Grand 
Master,  give  an  entertainment  different  in  character  or 
inconsistent  with  the  terms  of  the  dispensation.  (J.  1901, 
p.  12,  319.) 

56.  Pleasure  clubs,  by  whatsoever  name,  composed 
of  or  controlled  by  members  of  the  Order,  so  as  to  be 
identified  in  public  opinion  with  our  Order,  or  with  any 
particular  Lodge  or  Lodges  of  our  Order,  are  required 
to  secure  dispensations  for  picnics,  excursions,  balls  and 
entertainments  of  whatsoever  kind,  from  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter, with  the  same  restrictions  as  those  provided  for  the 
Lodge.     (J.  1901,  p.  12,  319.) 

57.  No  festival  may  be  held  in  connection  with  the 
regular  meeting  of  a  Lodge.     (J.  Ill,  p.  268.) 


R.  L.  I,  §1.  18 

58.  No  Lodge  shall  hold  any  anniversary  or  other 
celebration,  ball  or  party,  where  the  regalia  of  the  Order 
may  be  worn  or  the  name  of  the  Order  assumed,  without 
the  consent  of  the  Grand  Master  first  being  obtained  in 
writing,  such  permission  to  be  predicated  only  upon  the 
direct  promise  through  the  officers  of  the  Lodge  seeking 
the  permission,  that  no  intoxicating  liquors  of  any  kind 
shall  be  offered  by  them  to  the  members  or  guests  present 
on  the  occasion.  State  Grand  Lodges  must  enforce  this 
law.  (S.  J.  3709.)  If  a  Lodge  violates  this  law,  the  Grand 
Master  must  suspend  it  at  once,  and  prefer  charges  and 
specifications  as  directed.     (J.  IH,  p.  517.) 

59.  It  is  not  permissible  for  a  Lodge  to  present  in 
public  or  in  private  a  burlesque  of  any  of  the  ceremonies 
of  the  Order,  or  to  give  in  public  any  dramatic  repre- 
sentation claiming  to  be  in  any  way  connected  with  our 
ritual.     (S.  J.  13783,  14036,  14070.) 

60.  The  Grand  Lodge  recommends  to  the  Subordin- 
ates, in  places  where  its  annual  sessions  are  held,  that 
they  do  not  give  any  public  festival  or  entertainment  to 
the  Grand  Lodge.  The  Grand  Lodge  will  not  accept  any 
invitation  for  a  public  parade  during  its  session.  (J. 
18SS,  p.  108;  J.  V,  p.  744.) 

61.  No  Lodge  shall  appear  in  procession  in  regalia 
except  to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  brother  or  to  celebrate 
the  anniversary  day  of  the  Order,  April  26th,  without 
having  first  obtained  permission  so  to  do  in  the  manner 
prescribed  by  law.  (Grand  Lodge  By-Laws,  Art.  II,  Sec. 
7;  S.  J.  XXII,  p.  284,  355,  361.) 

62.  The  Anniversary  Proclamation  of  the  Grand  Sire 
gives  no  authority  to  wear  the  regalia  or  display  any  of 
the  emblems  of  the  Order  where  a  dance  or  banquet  or 
other  social  is  held  in  connection  with  the  anniversary. 
(S.  J.  14683,  14948,  15019.) 

63.  The  law  of  1864  (S.  J.  3709)  does  not  embrace 
attendance  at  church  or  other  public  places  in  regalia 
merely  to  listen  to  a  sermon  or  lecture  and  return 
promptly  to  the  Lodge  room.     (S.  J.  14685,  15045,  15086.) 

64.  Permission  to  join  in  public  procession  in  re- 
galia in  connection  with  other  organizations,  when  in- 
vited so  to  do  by  the  civil  authorities,   may  be   obtained 


19 R.  L.  I,  §1. 

under   such    regulations   as    the    Grand    Lodge   prescribes. 
(S.  J.  3739,  3821,  3843.) 

65.  A  Lodge  may  not  give  a  sacred  concert  on  Sun- 
day in  a  theatre  or  public  hall,  using  the  name  of  the 
Order,  charging  an  admission  fee  and  using  the  proceeds 
for  its  benefits.     (S.  J.  XXL  P-  543,  752,  820.) 

66.  If  the  Grand  Lodge  confers  the  power,  a  Sub- 
ordinate or  Rebekah  Lodge  may  by  By-Law  provide  that 
moneys  received  from  socials  and  entertainments  be 
placed  in  the  contingent  fund.    (S.  J.  XXL  P-  546,  752,  82C.) 

67.  The  20th  day  of  September  is  to  be  recognized 
as  the  anniversary  of  the  institution  of  the  Rebekah 
Degree,  and  it  is  to  be  annually  celebrated  and  commemo- 
rated as  such  by  proper  and  appropriate  ceremonies. 
(S.  J.  15640.) 

68.  The  26th  day  of  April  is  established  as  the  anni- 
versary of  the  Order,  and  the  Grand  Lodges  are  required 
to  urge  their  Subordinates  to  observe  the  day  in  some 
appropriate  manner,  and  to  authorize  them  to  hold  on 
that  day  public  processions  in  regalia.  (S.  J.  4210,  42il, 
lin,  7473.) 

69.  Where  the  Anniversary  of  the  Order  (April  26th) 
falls  on  a  week  day,  it  is  not  permissible  to  defer  the 
celebration  to  the  following  Sunday,  and  to  hold  a  meet- 
ing privately  or  publicly  for  such  celebration  on  such 
Sunday.  The  expenses  of  such  celebration  held  en  Sun 
day  may  not  be  legally  paid  either  from  the  general  or 
special  funds  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  435,  675,  709.) 

70.  A  general  dispensation  authorizing  the  Lodges 
to  celebrate  the  Anniversary  of  the  Order  by  public  ex- 
ercises not  contrary  to  the  recognized  laws  and  customs 
of  the  Order,  does  not  authorize  Lodges  to  have  balls, 
festivals,  etc.,  without  first  complying  with  the  law  and 
obtaining  a  special  dispensation  for  the  purpose.  (S.  J. 
3709;  Grand  Lodge  By-Laws,  Art.  II,  Sec.  7.) 

71.  No  Subordinate  or  Grand  Lodge,  Rebekah  Lodge 
or  Assembly,  Subordinate  or  Grand  Encampment,  Canton 
or  Grand  Canton,  and  no  member  of  any  of  the  above 
organizations  of  any  rank  or  station  in  the  same,  shall 
hold  or  make  any  arrangement  for,  or  manage,  or  to  any 
extent,  control  any  anniversary,  excursion,  picnic,  ball  or 
party,    or    entertainment     of     any     kind     where     regalia, 


R.  L.  I,  §1.  20 

emblems,  or  name  of  the  Order  will  be  worn,  assumed 
or  used,  without  first  obtaining  the  consent  of  the  Execu- 
tive Grand  Officer  in  the  jurisdiction,  or  department  of 
the  Order,  in  which  the  entertainment  is  proposed  to  be 
held,  such  permission  only  to  be  predicated  upon  the 
direct  promise,  through  the  officers  of  the  Subordinate 
or  Grand  Body  seeking  the  permission,  that  no  intoxicat- 
ing beverages  of  any  kind  shall  be  offered  to  the  members 
or  guests  present  on  the  occasion.     (S.  J.  13067,  13155.) 

72.  A  "masque  ball,"  held  under  the  auspices  of  the 
Lodge,  is  not  necessarily  an  affair  which  would  scandalize 
the  Order.  It  would  depend  upon  the  character  and  sur- 
roundings of  the  ball.     (S.  J.  12353,  12616,  12652.) 

THE  LODGE  SEAL: 

73.  Every  Lodge  shall  have  a  suitable  seal  (a  proof- 
impression  of  which  shall  be  deposited  with  the  Grand 
Secretary) ;  and  all  of  its  official  communications  shall  be 
sealed  therewith.     (G.  L.  By-Laws,  Art.  H,  Sec.  6.) 

74.  The  seal  to  be  authentic  must  be  printed  or  im- 
pressed upon  the  paper  or  document  it  authenticates,  and 
not  affixed  thereto.     (S.  J.  2767,  2810.) 

75.  The  seal  shall  only  be  used  in  transacting  the 
legitimate  business  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  6752,  6976,  7051.) 

76.  Communications  from  one  Lodge  to  another  or 
to  persons  ought  to  be  attested  by  the  seal,  and  a  Lodge 
would  be  justified  in  refusing  attention  to  any  document 
from  another  Lodge  not  so  attested.  The  custom  is  to 
address    a    Lodge    as    follows:      "To    the    Noble    Grand, 

Officers    and    Members    of 

Lodge,  No ",  but  there  is  no  law  which  requires 

a  communication  in  that  form.     (S.  J.  9857,  10105,  10176.) 

77.  In  the  installation  ceremony  the  seal  is  put  into 
the  hands  of  the  Recording  Secretary.  He  is  the  only 
one  authorized  to  use  it,  and  he  alone  can  officially  attest 
anything  for  or  on  behalf  of  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  9856, 
10105,  10176;  See  Ritual,  second  paragraph,  p.  52.) 

78.  The  Financial  Secretary,  as  such,  has  no  au- 
thority to  use  the  seal  (J.  VI,  p.  496)  even  for  the  pur- 
pose of  attesting  notices  of  arrears  sent  to  members 
(J.  V,  p.  485)   or  for  attesting  official  receipts    (S.  J.  XX, 


21 R.  L.  I,  §2. 

p.  32,  361,  371,  372.)  It  is  in  the  official  keeping  of  tlie 
Recording  Secretary,  and  neither  the  Noble  Grand  nor 
any  other  officer  of  the  Lodge  has  a  right  to  use  it  with- 
out his  consent.  (J.  IV,  p.  198.)  The  Recording  Secretary 
may  affix  it  to  any  document  which  he  is  authorized  or 
required  to  certify  to  by  the  Constitution  and  By-Laws 
of  his  own  Lodge,  or  by  the  regulations  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  or  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  whether  the  document  has  been 
brought  before  the  Lodge  or  not;  but  he  may  not  use 
it  in  any  other  case  without  a  special  order  from  the 
Lodge.  An  unauthorized  use  of  the  seal  would  constitute 
official  misconduct,  which,  in  a  proper  case,  would  war 
rant  the  infliction  of  the  penalty  of  expulsion  or  sus 
pension  upon  the  offender.   (J.  1853,  p.  49;  See  %476 infra.) 

79.  It  is  legitimate  and  proper  for  Lodges  to  use  a 
printed   seal   on  official   documents,    when   it   is    not   con 
venient  to  actually  impress  it.     (S.  J.  15176,  15534,  15584.) 
It  is  legal  to  print  the  seal  upon  official  documents  of  the 
Lodge  or  Encampment.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  780,  882,  913.) 

80.  REGULAR    MEETINGS  —  QUORUM — 

Sec.  2. — This  Lodge  shalil  hold  regular  meetings  as 
provided  by  the  By-Laws,  not  less  than  two  each 
month.  Five  members,  irrespective  of  sex,  including 
one  lawfully  qualified  to  preside,  shall  constitute  a 
quorum.  (J.  1895,  p.  199;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  20; 
S.  J.  XIX,  p.  845;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  29;  S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  848.) 

WHO  MAY  BE  PRESENT: 

81.  The  fact  that  a  member  is  present  during  a  meet- 
ing of  the  Lodge  is  not  prima  facie  evidence,  of  his  right 
to  participate  in  the  proceedings  of  the  meeting,  because 
the  qualifications  required  to  entitle  a  member  to  be 
present  at  a  meeting  are  not  identical  with  the  qualifica- 
tions required  to  entitle  a  member  to  participate  in  the 
proceedings  of  a  meeting.     (S.  J.  14572,  14608.) 

82.  A  member  in  good  standing  cannot  be  kept  out 
of  the  Lodge  while  the  minutes  of  the  preceding  meeting 
are  being  read.     (S.  J.  6350,  6619,  6692.) 


R.  L.  I,  §2. 22 

83.  Under  the  wording  of  the  fine  print  at  the  end 
of  the  instruction  in  the  degree,  relative  to  those  who 
may  be  kept  out  of  a  Lodge,  a  member  suspended  for 
non-payment  of  dues  can  be  kept  out.  (S.  J.  15176,  15534, 
15584.) 

QUORUM: 

84.  When  a  Lodge,  during  its  meeting,  is  left  with- 
out a  quorum,  it  can  do  no  further  business,  and  the 
Noble  Grand  should  declare  it  closed  without  ceremony. 
(S.  J.  13782,  14036,  14070.) 

85.  The  presence  of  a  quorum  is  legally  ascertained 
by  calling  the  roll.  Records  should  show  a  quorum 
present.  A  Lodge  cannot  be  opened  nor  transact  any 
business  unless  a  quorum  be  present,  and  a  member  of 
the  Lodge  who  is  the  Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand,  or  who 
is  a  Past  Grand,  be  present  to  assume  the  principal  chair. 
(J.  L  P-  146,  302;  J.  IH,  p.  421,  443.) 

86.  If  a  meeting  is  held  with  an  apparent  quorum 
present,  but  so  many  are  disqualified  to  vote  that  there 
are  less  than  five  legal  voters,  all  business  done  at  such 
a  meeting  is  illegal,  and  a  brother  taking  a  withdrawal 
card  is  still  a  member.  Such  business  can  be  valid  or 
made  valid  in  a  few  cases  only,  in  which  the  rights  of 
third  parties  are  involved.  One  of  the  instances  where 
such  action  would  become  valid  is  the  election  to  mem- 
bership in  another  Lodge  of  a  brother  on  a  withdrawal 
card  granted  at  such  a  meeting,  for  an  error  in  granting 
the  card  would  not  invalidate  the  brother's  membership. 
(S.  J.  8108,  8178;  W-979.) 

87.  An  initiation  at  such  a  meeting  would  not  be 
void.  It  does  not  follow  from  the  illegality  of  proceed- 
ings that  they  can  be  set  aside;  they  may  have  drawn 
on  some  consequences  that  cannot  be  recalled,  and  must 
be  validated.     (W-979;  T-1240.) 

OPENING  AND   CLOSING: 

88.  Meetings  may  be  opened  and  closed  with  prayer. 
(Sov.  By-Laws,  Art.  XXI.) 

89.  While  it  is  proper  that  Lodges  open  and  close 
with  prayer,  it  is  not  competent  for  them  to  require  the 


23 R.  L.  I,  §2. 

performance    of    this    ceremony    under    the    sanction    of 
penalty.     (S.  J.  2491,  2508.) 

90.  Our  Order  only  requires  a  belief  in  the  existence 
of  a  Supreme  Being  as  a  qualification  for  membership, 
and  has  no  affinity  with  any  religious  sect  or  system  of 
faith;  hence,  everything  savoring  of  sectarianism  is  not 
to  be  tolerated.  The  words  "system  of  faith  or  sect"  do 
not  have  reference  merely  to  sects  within  the  pale  of 
Christianity,  but  have  a  far  broader  significance,  and  in- 
clude all  the  religions  of  the  World.  In  this  sense 
Christianity  is  a  sect;  hence,  it  is  inexpedient,  unwise  and 
unlawful  to  make  prominent  reference  to  it  in  Lodge 
work.  There  is  no  law  requiring  Lodges  to  open  or  close 
with  prayer;  but  the  S.  G.  L.  in  1882  (S.  J.  9147)  adopted 
forms  of  prayer  to  be  used  in  opening  and  closing,  but 
left  the  use  of  them  optional  with  Lodges.     (T-1031.) 

92.  A  motion  to  adjourn  a  Lodge  to  another  day 
or  time  is  never  in  order.  A  motion  to  adjourn  without 
day  is  always  in  order,  even  before  all  the  orders  of  the 
evening  as  laid  down  in  the  Charge  Books  have  been 
called,  or  pending  a  discussion.  If  the  motion  prevails, 
the  Lodge  must  then  proceed  to  close  in  due  form: 
Provided,  that  in  the  event  that  cases  of  sick  or  distressed 
members  have  not  been  disposed  of  prior  to  the  adoption 
of  such  motion,  such  cases  shall  be  considered  before 
the  Lodge  is  formally  closed.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  317,  341,  370.) 

93.  It  is  contrary  to  usage  and  highly  improper  for 
any  Lodge  to  use  any  means  of  public  alarm  for  the 
purpose  of  calling  its  members  together.     (J.  Ill,  p.  100.) 

94.  In  case  of  accident  or  urgent  alarm,  as  a  fire 
near  at  hand,  when  a  Lodge  is  dispersed  without  regular 
closing,  the  members  should  reassemble,  if  possible,  and 
go  on  with  their  work.  If  this  is  not  done,  the  Secretary 
should  make  a  full  statement  of  the  fact  on  his  record. 
The  next  meeting  should  be  held  in  the  usual  manner, 
taking  up  any  unfinished  business  of  the  disturbed  meet- 
ing.    (J.  Ill,  p.  161,  193.) 

95.  When  a  Lodge  fails  to  be  opened  at  its  regular 
meeting  by  reason  of  the  absence  of  officers,  it  is  com- 
petent for  the  members  present  to  organize  informally, 
note  the  absentees,  adjourn,  and  notify  the  Lodge  of  the 
same   at   its   next   regular   meeting;    and   this   proceeding 


R.  L.  I,  §2.  24 

shall  authorize  the  entering  of  fines  against  the  delin- 
quents, if  the  By-Laws  enact  fines  for  absence.  (J.  I,  p. 
220;  J.  Ill,  p.  108,  193.) 

96.  The  practice  is  well  settled  for  presiding  oflficers 
to  fill  the  Subordinate  stations  by  pro  tempore  appoint- 
ment, in  place  of  absentees,  previous  to  proceeding  to 
business.  Such  is  the  universal  custom  in  the  Order. 
By-Laws  on  the  subject  are  unnecessary.  The  right  of 
the  presiding  oflficer  to  make  such  appointments  accord- 
ing to  his  discretion  is  a  constitutional  right  and  cannot 
be  infringed  upon  by  By-Laws  or  resolutions  of  the 
Lodge.  A  Vice  Grand  pro  tempore  may  appoint  pro 
tempore  his  own  Supporters,  if  the  regular  incumbents 
are  not  present.     (J.  L  P-  147;  W-256.) 

ENTERING  AND  RETIRING: 

97.  No  member  is  entitled  to  enter  or  leave  the 
Lodge  room  unless  clothed  in  regalia.  If  an  officer  and 
his  regalia  be  in  the  chair,  in  the  Lodge  room,  he  must 
enter  in  the  regalia  of  his  rank,  and  there  exchange  it  for 
his  official  regalia.  (S.  J.  2699,  2764,  2810.)  Nor  may  a 
member  enter  or  retire  from  the  Lodge  room  during  an 
initiation.     (S.  J.  9736,  9802.) 

98.  If  a  member  makes  application  to  enter  a  Lodge 
room  in  proper  manner  and  time,  he  has  a  right,  if  cor- 
rect, to  be  admitted.  He  may  not  enter  or  remain  in  the 
Lodge  room  when  the  Lodge  is  in  session,  nor  may  he 
speak  or  vote  unless  he  be  clothed  in  full  in  the  regalia 
of  his  rank  or  station:  Provided,  the  necessary  regalia 
be  furnished  and  is  at  hand.  He  cannot  be  kept  out  of 
his  Lodge  while  the  minutes  are  being  read  if  he  can 
work  his  way  into  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  6350,  6619,  6692, 
6696,  6705.) 

99.  A  member  may  not  be  prohibited  from  leaving 
the  Lodge  at  proper  periods  during  the  meeting,  and  the 
Noble  Grand  may  not,  by  refusing  the  salutation,  compel 
a  brother  to  remain  if  he  wishes  to  retire.  (J.  1855,  p. 
23,  126;  J.  1856,  p.  118.) 

100.  Should  an  officer  enter  after  roll  call,  that  fact 
should  be  shown  on  the  record  book,  and  may  be  shown 
on  the  roll  call  book.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 


25  R.  L.  I,  §2. 

BUSINESS  TRANSACTED: 

101.  The  presence  of  the  Charter  in  the  Lodge  is 
necessary  to  the  legality  of  the  proceedings.  The  Charter 
may  be  in  the  ante-room,  which  is,  for  working  purposes, 
part  of  the  Lodge  room.     (Ritual,  p.  56.) 

102.  When  the  time  for  opening  the  Lodge  arrives, 
and  the  Noble  Grand  has  assumed  her  station,  she  is  from 
that  moment  in  the  exercise  of  official  duties,  and  the 
Lodge  is  really  in  session;  she  should  use  the  gavel  in 
calling  up  the  Lodge,  and  all  present  should  obey  it  as 
readily  in  the  opening  ceremony  as  after  the  Lodge  is 
declared  open.     (J.  IV,  p.  383,  435,  465,  469.) 

103.  While  the  Lodge  is  in  session,  from  the  time  it 
is  opened  until  it  is  regularly  closed,  it  is  under  the  con- 
trol of  the  Noble  Grand.  Should  the  Lodge  resolve  itself 
into  a  committee  of  the  whole,  it  may  appoint  a  chairman 
for  the  committee,  who,  however,  will  not  be  invested 
with  the  powers  of  the  Noble  Grand;  but  the  Noble  Grand 
retains  a  supervisory  power  over  the  Lodge,  and  may, 
upon  good  cause,  dissolve  the  committee  and  resume  the 
regular  session.     (J.  I,  p.  150.) 

104.  A  report  is  not  properly  before  the  Lodge  until 
read  in  open  Lodge,  either  by  the  Secretary  or  some 
member,  so  that  the  Lodge  may  judge  whether  the  report 
is  germane  to  the  question  and  couched  in  proper  language. 
The  report  is  not  in  possession  of  the  Lodge  until  placed 
there  by  vote  of  the  Lodge,  which  vote,  if  carried,  dis- 
charges the  committee  without  further  motion.  The  re- 
port of  the  Investigating  Committee  is  not  before  the 
Lodge  until  it  is  read  by  the  Secretary.  Prior  to  the 
reading  of  such  report,  the  name  of  the  candidate  may 
be  withdrawn.     (J.   Ill,  p.  44.) 

105.  If  a  report  is  written,  it  should  be  intelligible 
of  itself,  but  the  report  of  the  Visiting  Committee  may 
be  oral  or  written,  or  partly  oral  and  partly  written;  it  is 
sufficient  if  the  Lodge  accept  it.     (J.  V,  p.  678.) 

106.  Lodges  may  regulate  the  Order  of  Business  to 
suit  their  particular  necessities.      (S.  J.   1064,  5177,  5221.) 

107.  A  Lodge  may  transact  business  under  the  head 
of  "Good  of  the  Order."     (J.  1854,  p.  54.) 


R.  L.  I,  §2.  26 

108.  It  is  not  necessary  to  obtain  the  unanimous 
consent  of  a  Lodge  to  give  a  visiting  member  the  right 
to  speak  in  the  Lodge;  but  permission  may  be  given  by 
a  majority  vote,  as  well  as  by  general  consent.  (J.  V,  p. 
138,  202,  230.) 

109.  Small  attendance  of  members  is  no  reason  for 
setting  aside  legal  action  of  a  Lodge,  provided  a  quorum 
be  present.     (J.  VL  p.  70S.) 

110.  A  Lodge  may  protect  itself  from  violence,  in- 
sult and  disorder,  upon  actual  occurrence  or  demonstra- 
tion of  such  wrong;  but  it  must  not  be  anticipated  or 
presumed;  this  power  of  protection  must  be  called  forth 
only  by  actual  demonstration.     (J.  IH,  p.  443.) 

THE  RECORDS: 

111.  A  mistake  or  error  discovered  in  the  minutes 
of  a  Lodge  can  be  corrected  after  the  time  for  correcting 
and  approving  the  minutes  has  gone  by.  (S.  J.  14248, 
14487,  14570.) 

112.  It  is  not  necessary,  though  proper,  to  record 
the  names  of  the  brothers  present  who  make  up  the 
quorum.     (J.  VIH,  p.  521.) 

113.  A  convenient  and  proper  form  for  keeping  the 
records  is  this:     Be  it  remembered  that  at  a  regular  (or 

special)    meeting    of Rebekah    Lodge, 

No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  held  at 

on  the (date),   the   Lodge   was 

opened  in  due  form  by  Noble  Grand  A B, 

(or  Vice  Grand  C D,  or  Past  Grand  E F) 

presiding;  present  the  following  named  officers  and 
members  (here  name  them.)  The  following  proceedings 
were  had  (here  record  proceedings). 

(In  case  the  record  be  of  a  special  meeting,  the  call 
should  be  made  a  matter  of  record,  so  it  may  appear 
that  no  business  was  transacted  other  than  that  em- 
braced in  the  call.) 

The  closing  form  may  be:  No  other  business  ap- 
pearing, the  Lodge  closed  in  F.,  L.  and  T. 

G H.,  Sec. 

Approved:  A B.,  Noble  Grand. — (Editor.) 

114.  Minutes  of  a  meeting  should  not  be  approved 
until  copied  in  the  record  book.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 


27  R.  L.  I,  §2. 

115.  The  Grand  Lodge  may  authorize  Lodges  who 
work  in  a  foreign  language  to  keep  their  minutes  in  such 
language,  and  to  dispense  with  an  English  copy,  but 
Lodges  so  working  and  so  keeping  their  records  shall 
furnish  to  the  Grand  Lodge  extracts  thereof  from  their 
minutes  translated  into  English  whenever  the  Grand 
Lodge  or  its  Executive  Officers  may  require  it.  (S.  J. 
2114,  2131.) 

116.  The  Lodge  records  must  present  an  accurate 
transcript  of  the  real  proceedings,  and  no  alteration 
which  makes  a  false  record  is  allowable.  If  the  Lodge 
errs  and  afterwards  corrects  itself,  it  must  so  appear  in 
the  records.  The  power  to  alter,  amend  or  expunge  any 
portion  of  the  records  simply  extends  to  a  correction 
of  clerical  errors,  so  that  the  Secretary  may  be  set  right 
when  wrong;  but  in  no  case  does  it  authorize  a  Lodge 
to  put  wrong  for  right,  or  falsehood  for  truth.  It  is  the 
duty  of  the  Secretary  of  a  Lodge  to  record  all  the  regular 
proceedings  of  a  Lodge,  whether  they  be  legal  or  illegal. 
It  is  not  in  his  province  to  judge  of  their  legality.  When 
a  motion  has  been  made,  seconded  and  debated,  and  after- 
wards withdrawn,  both  the  motion  and  the  withdrawal 
should  appear  upon  the  minutes.  (J.  1856,  p.  44,  57,  129; 
J.  Ill,  p.  159.) 

117.  The  roll  call  book  is  not  a  part  of  the  records. 
It  is  a  mere  convenience  for  the  Secretary.  If  the  ab- 
sence of  an  officer  does  not  appear  in  the  regular  and 
approved  minutes  of  the  evening,  it  is  not  a  matter  of 
record.     (J.  VIII,  p.  410.) 

118.  Announcement  of  receipts  of  the  evening  is  a 
part  of  the  transactions  of  the  evening,  and  should  appear 
on  the  Secretary's  record.     (J.  VI,  p.  233,  326,  343.) 

119.  A  Lodge  cannot  be  compelled  by  a  Grand 
Lodge  to  mutilate  or  change  the  records  of  its  proceed- 
ings.    (S.  J.  782.) 

120.  When  minutes  of  a  meeting  come  up  for  con- 
sideration, if  the  record  made  by  the  Secretary  is  not 
satisfactory,  the  Lodge  can  order  any  statement  of  facts 
entered  upon  the  record,  and  such  order  is  legal  and 
valid.     (J.  IV,  p.  128,  156.) 


R.  L.  I,  §2. 28 

121.  The  proper  time  for  amending  or  altering  rec- 
ords is  at  the  meeting  at  which  they  were  made,  or  at  the 
next  succeeding  meeting,  when  before  the  Lodge  for  ap- 
proval. But  if  at  any  time  afterwards  it  is  found  that  the 
record  is  incorrect  by  omission  or  otherwise,  the  Lodge 
may  amend  it,  and  not  the  Secretary;  his  power  over  the 
record  ended  with  the  approval  of  it.  In  case  of  amend- 
ment being  made,  the  original  record  should  not  be 
altered  by  erasure,  interlineations,  or  the  like.  The  fact 
that  an  amendment  has  been  made  should  be  noted  on 
the  margin  of  the  original  record,  but  the  substance  of  the 
alteration  and  the  circumstances  of  its  being  made  should 
appear  in  full  in  the  records  of  the  meeting  at  which  it 
was  made,  and  there  only.  The  practice  of  erasing,  inter- 
lining, etc.,  to  correct  a  record,  is  fundamentally  wrong. 
(J.  I,  p.  311;  J.  IV,  p.  201,  241,  246.) 

122.  The  Secretary  should  have  the  records  present 
at  every  meeting,  and  should  not,  unless  there  is  some 
great  necessity  for  doing  so,  ever  take  them  out  of  the 
Lodge  room.     (J.  VI,  p.  79,  137,  141.) 

123.  A  Lodge  must  keep  its  records  in  the  language 
in  which  it  works.     (J.  VII,  p.  117.) 

WHEN  HELD: 

124.  Meetings  of  all  Lodges  must  be  held  on  week 
days  and  on  regular  specified  days  in  the  week.  (S.  J. 
11744,  11790.)  No  Lodge  shall  hold  any  meeting  for 
work  or  business  upon  Sunday  except  for  funeral  pur- 
poses. (S.  J.  4834.)  Meetings  which  would  occur  on 
legal  holidays  may  be  omitted.  (S.  J.  10473;  J.  1901;  p. 
14,  270,  294.)  But  a  meeting  held  on  a  legal  holiday  is 
a  legal  meeting  unless  prohibited  by  local  law.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  306,  328,  354.) 

125.  A  Lodge  may  meet  in  the  day  time  or  in  the 
afternoon  of  any  week  day,  or  at  any  time  that  suits  its 
convenience  except  on  Sunday,  but  it  may  not  open  and 
transact  business  at  any  earlier  time  than  that  fixed  by  the 
By-Laws,  or  in  case  of  a  Special  Meeting,  an  earlier  time 
than  that  fixed  by  the  call  therefor.  (J.  VI,  p.  821;  J. 
1901,  p.  14,  270,  294.)  A  dispensation  by  the  Grand  Lodge 
or  Grand  Master  to  dispense  with  the  regular  meetings 
of  a  Lodge  is  illegal,  and  cannot  be  exercised.  Although 
a  dispensation  can  be  issued  to  a  Lodge  to  hold  a  Special 


29  R.  L.  I,  §2. 

Meeting  at  a  time  not  provided  for  in  the  By-Laws. 
(S.  J.  2781,  2818,  15753,  16071,  16116.)  Both  under  the 
new  Code  and  the  old  law,  the  place  of  meeting  of  Re- 
bekah  Lodges  is  left  with  State  Grand  Bodies.  The  new 
Code  makes  no  change  in  that  respect.  (S.  J.  14241, 
14487,  14570).  Section  10  of  Art.  II  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
By-Laws  provides  that  no  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  be  es- 
tablished, and  no  meeting  of  any  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  be 
holden  in  a  tavern  or  hotel  under  penalty  of  forfeiture 
of  their  charter,  without  express  permission  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  or  the  Grand  Master.  (J.  1905,  p.  276,  295.)  But 
where  the  By-Laws  have  been  amended  making  a  change 
in  the  time  or  place  of  meeting,  the  Grand  Master  may 
grant  a  dispensation  permitting  a  Lodge  to  change  its 
meeting  night  pending  the  action  of  the  Committee  on 
Judiciary  and  Appeals,  upon  an  amendment  to  its  By- 
Laws  providing  for  such  change.  (S.  J.  12353,  12632, 
12701;  J.  1901,  p.  12319.) 

126.  Special  meetings  may  be  called  by  the  Noble 
Grand  in  her  discretion,  but  when  five  members  of  the 
Lodge  present  a  request  in  writing  for  a  Special  Meet- 
ing, or  when  the  Lodge  at  any  regular  meeting  orders 
the  call  of  a  Special  Meeting,  it  is  obligatory  on  the 
Noble  Grand  to  call  such  Special  Meeting.  (Sec.  3,  Art. 
I,  Rebekah  Lodge  Const.)  But  a  Special  Meeting  can- 
not be  called  for  the  purpose  of  receiving  propositions 
for  membership.  (S.  J.  12353,  12632,  12701.)  Nor  may 
any  business  be  transacted  at  such  Special  Meeting  other 
than  that  specified  in  the  call.  (J.  1901,  p.  303.)  Nor 
may  any  Special  Meeting  be  opened  for  the  transaction 
of  business  at  any  earlier  time  than  that  fixed  by  the 
call.     (J.  VI,  p.  821.) 

WHERE  HELD: 

127.  Meetings  may  not  be  held  outside  of  the  limits 
of  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  (S.  J.  8072,  8173.) 
Nor  may  any  meeting  be  held  at  a  tavern  or  hotel  with- 
out permission.  (Grand  Lodge  By-Laws,  Art.  II,  Sec.  10). 
The  Grand  Lodge  has  authority  to  prohibit  meetings 
from  being  held  at  places  that  may  not  be  deemed  suffi- 
ciently private  and  secure  from  intrusion,  but  it  may  not 
compel  a  Lodge  to  meet  in  any  particular  room.  (S.  J. 
782,  812.)      If  the   meetings   of  the   Lodge   are   held   in   a 


R.  L.  I,  §3. 30 

place  which  is  for  any  reason  unsuitable,  it  is  the  duty 
of  the  Grand  Master  upon  knowledge  of  the  facts,  to  re- 
quire the  Lodge  to  remove  to  a  suitable  room.  (J.  VII, 
p.  137.  )  A  Lodge  may  change  its  place  of  meeting  from 
one  room  to  another  in  the  same  town  or  city  without  a 
dispensation  from  the  Grand  Master,  but  if  the  room  se- 
lected should  be  unsuitable,  then  the  Grand  Lodge  may 
prohibit  meetings  from  being  held  therein.  (Thornton 
1232;  S.  J.  812). 

128.  No  meeting  of  the  Lodge  may  be  held  in  any 
place  other  than  the  regular  Lodge  room,  except  for  pub- 
lic installation,  and  then  only  by  vote  of  the  Lodge; 
provided^  that  the  Grand  Master  may  grant  a  dispensation 
upon  proper  application  by  the  Lodge,  for  the  Lodge  to 
meet  in  some  .other  place  for  the  exemplification  of  the 
work,  and  for  other  purposes  that  the  Grand  Master  may 
deem  sufficient  reason  for  such  temporary  change  of 
meeting  place.  (J.  V,  p.  137,  202;  as  amended  J.  1903,  p. 
35,  274,  282). 

129.  The  location  of  a  Lodge  is  designated  in  its 
Charter  and  cannot  be  changed  without  the  authority  of 
the  Grand  Lodge.  (S.  J.  782,  812.)  Movable  Lodges,  such 
as  Lodges  attached  to  the  Army,  are  not  permitted.  (U. 
S.  Digest  1847,  p.  48;  S.  J.  659,  2136,  2177.)  No  Lodge 
room  within  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  may  be 
used  for  the  conferring  of  any  Degrees  or  secret  work  not 
provided  for  by  the  existing  laws  of  the  Order.  This  does 
not  effect,  however,  any  proceedings  in  such  Lodge  room 
by  other  secret  organizations  not  under  the  color  of  Odd 
Fellowship.    (S.  J.  4855,  4894;  S.  G.  L.  By-Laws,  Art.  XX.) 

130.  SPECIAL  MEETINGS,  HOW  CALLED, 
WHERE  HELD,  BUSINESS.— Sec.  3.— The  Noble 
Grand  may  call  special  meetings,  or  she  shall  call 
them  on  the  written  request  of  five  (5)  members 
or  by  the  order  of  the  Lodge  at  any  regular  meet- 
ing. Special  meetings  may  not  be  held  at  other 
than  the  regular  meeting  place  without  a  dispen- 
sation therefor  from  the  Grand  Master.  A  special 
meeting  shall  not  transact  any  business  other  than 
that  specified  in  the  call.     (J.  1901,  p.  303.) 


31  R.  L.  III. 

131.  Special  meetings  may  be  called  by  the  Vice 
Grand  if  the  Noble  Grand  be  absent.  (S.  J.  9160,  9324, 
9442.) 

132.  A  Lodge  cannot  transact  any  business  when  the 
meeting  has  been  called  informally,  and  not  in  accordance 
with  its  By-Laws.     (S.  J.  9283,  9348.) 

133.  If  a  session  be  called  in  conformity  with  the  law 
of  a  Lodge,  any  business  transacted  in  that  session  in  con- 
formity with  the  call  is  in  open  Lodge.  (J.  1857,  p.  50,  54, 
94;  see  §389  i7ifra.) 

ARTICLE  II.— OBJECTS  AND   PURPOSES. 

134.  OBJECTS    AND    PURPOSES.— Section 

1. — The  objects  and  purposes  of  this  Lodge  are: 

1st.  To  aid  in  the  establishment  and  mainten- 
ance of  Homes  for  Aged  and  Indigent  Odd  Fellows 
and  their  wives,  or  for  the  widows  of  deceased  Odd 
Fellows;  and  Homes  for  the  care,  education  and 
support  of  orphans  of  deceased  Odd  Fellows. 

2nd.  To  visit  the  sick,  relieve  the  distressed, 
and  in  every  way  to  assist  Subordinate  and  sister 
Rebekah  Lodges  in  kindly  ministrations  to  the 
families  of  Odd  Fellows  who  are  in  trouble  or  want. 
3rd.  To  cultivate  and  extend  the  social  and  fra- 
ternal relations  of  life  among  the  Lodges  and  the 
families  of  Odd  Fellows.  (J.  1895,  p.  199;  see  Re- 
bekah Code,  title,  Objects  and  Purposes;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  842.) 

ARTICLE  III.— MEMBERSHIP. 

QUALIFICATIONS  FOR  MEMBERSHIP: 

135.  Qualifications  for  membership  in  the  Lodge  are 
prescribed  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  and  neither  the  Grand  Lodge 
nor  the  Subordinate  Lodge  has  any  power  to  add  to  or 
change  such  qualifications.     (S.  J.  4070,  4187,  4201.) 

136.  To  the  S.  G.  L.  alone  belongs  the  power  to  fix 
the  qualifications  for  membership  in  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  529,  536,  978,  1002.) 


R.  L.  III.  32 

137.  Denying  the  existence  of  God  or  of  a  Supreme 
Being,  renders  a  person  ineligible  for  membership.     (S.  J. 

XIX,  p.  515,  827,  873.) 

138.  A  person  with  one-quarter  Indian  blood  is  not 
eligible  to  membership  in  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  506, 
827,  873.) 

139.  The  legislation  of  the  S.  G.  L.  which  permitted 
Grand  Lodges  of  certain  jurisdictions  to  admit  persons  of 
mixed  Indian  and  white  blood  who  had  arrived  at  the  age 
of  twenty-one  years  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  330)  has  been  repealed. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  940,  941.) 

140.  Persons  of  mixed  foreign  and  Japanese  parent- 
age are  not  eligible  to  membership  in  the  Order.     (S.  J. 

XX,  p.  24,  361,  371.) 

141.  All  Lodges  have  the  right  to  reject  such  ap- 
plicants as  they  may  regard  unworthy,  and  it  is  their  own 
fault  if  persons  holding  membership  in  or  connected  with 
any  society  or  association  by  the  obligation  or  require- 
ments of  which  the  secrets  of  our  Order  may  be  en- 
dangered, gain  admission.     (S.  J.  2249,  2266,  2327.) 

142.  An  uneducated  person  who  cannot  write  his 
name  is  not  by  that  fact  debarred  from  membership  in  the 
Order.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  529,  978,  1002.) 

143.  To  add  an  additional  limitation  or  qualification 
for  membership  as  to  age  would  be  to  legislate  upon  a 
subject  which  a  Lodge  cannot  touch.     (S.  J.  5524,  5549.) 

144.  Enactments  that  candidates  for  membership  shall 
not  be  over  fifty  years  of  age,  or  that  a  person  who  has 
been  rejected  twice,  shall  not  again  be  proposed  for  mem- 
bership, are  restrictions  not  warranted  by  our  laws.  (S. 
J.  5836,  5877.) 

145.  Persons  claiming  to  have  been  members  of  the 
Order,  but  who  are  unable  to  establish  satisfactory  claims, 
can  only  be  admitted  by  initiation.  Any  such  person  shall 
be  required  to  set  forth  in  his  petition  for  membership 
that  he  has  never  been  expelled  from  any  Lodge  and  that 
he  is  unable  to  obtain  evidence  of  his  former  connection 
with  the  Order.     (S.  J.  1921,  1956.) 

146.  Any  one  who  is  reinstated  pursuant  to  the  pre- 
ceding decision  must  proceed   in   degrees   and   honors   as 


33  R.  L.  III. 

if  he   had   never  been   or   claimed   to   have   been   an    Odd 
Fellow.     (J.  Ill,  p.  420,  443.) 

147.  Satisfactory  evidence  of  former  connection  with 
the  Order,  within  the  meaning  of  the  law,  must  come 
from  the  Lodge  to  which  the  member  formerly  belonged, 
or,  in  the  event  of  such  evidence  being  inaccessible  by 
reason  of  its  being  defunct  or  otherwise,  then  from  the 
Grand  Body  under  whose  jurisdiction  the  Lodge  existed. 
And  should  neither  of  these  be  accessible  or  obtainable, 
then  such  evidence  shall  be  regulated  for  each  of  the 
State  Grand  Jurisdictions  by  the  Grand  Bodies  thereof. 
Should  the  applicant  fail  to  meet  these  requirements,  he 
may  then  make  petition  for  admission  into  the  Order 
by  initiation.     (S.  J.  3968,  4007.) 

148.  A  man  made  application  for  membership  in  a 
Lodge,  was  elected,  answered  the  preliminary  questions 
satisfactorily,  and  was  initiated.  After  the  initiation  it 
was  discovered  that  he  was  on  parole  from  an  insane 
asylum.  It  was  held  that  until  the  fact  of  his  insanity 
at  the  time  of  his  application,  election  and  initiation  is 
legally  established  under  the  laws  of  the  Order,  his  mem- 
bership must  be  recognized.  If  in  a  proceeding  for  that 
purpose,  and  of  which  he  had  notice,  it  is  shown  that  he 
was  insane  at  the  time  of  his  application,  election  and 
initiation,  his  election  could  be  annulled,  and  he  could 
be  expelled  from  the  Lodge  on  the  ground  that  he  was 
not  competent  to  enter  into  the  contract  involved  in  the 
obtaining  of  membership;  or  charges  could  be  preferred 
against  him  for  concealing  from  the  Lodge  and  not  di- 
vulging the  important  fact  of  the  condition  of  his  mind. 
The  proceedings,  of  course,  would  have  to  be  in  accord- 
ance with  the  provisions  of  the  local  law.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  75,  299,  300,  323.) 

149.  No  particular  religious  opinion  is  requisite  for 
admission  into  the  Order,  and  none  disqualifies.  (S.  J. 
1246.) 

150.  A  candidate  may  be  called  an  infidel,  or  be  a 
member  of  any  creed,  or  possess  any  form  of  religious 
belief:  Provided,  he  is  not  an  atheist,  he  is  eligible  to 
membership.     (S.  J.  1503,  1513.) 

151.  Neither  the  totally  deaf,  dumb,  nor  blind  can 
be  initiated  into  the  Order.     It  is  not  expedient  to  initiate 


R.  L.  HI.  34 

into  the  Order  any  member  deprived  of  the  sense  of  sight 
or  hearing  or  the  power  of  speech.     (S.  J.  1470,  1484.) 

152.  A  person  permanently  .so  lilind  as  not  to  be 
able  to  distinguish  persons  or  things,  although  in  good 
financial  circumstances,  cannot  be  initiated  into  the  Order. 
He  could  not  rigidly  comply  wit'h  the  obligations  which 
Odd  Fellows  take  upon  connecting  themselves  with  the 
Order.     (S.  J.  8532,  8701,  8767.) 

153.  The  customs  and  usages  of  the  Order  prohibit 
the  initiation  of  a  person  whose  physical  deformity  pre- 
vents a  compliance  with  the  requirements  and  laws  of 
the  Order.  The  decision  of  the  cjuestion  as  to  the  ap- 
plicability of  the  general  principle  to  special  cases  of 
partial  deformity  rests  with  the  local  authorities,  and  es- 
pecially with  the  Subordinate  Lodge  to  which  admission 
is  asked.     (S.  J.  3621,  3688,  3707.) 

154.  A  person  who  has  lost  an  arm  is  not  eligible 
to  membership  by  initiation.      (S.  J.  4070,  4187,  4201.) 

155.  But  the  question  of  eligibility  to  membership 
into  the  Order  by  initiation  of  persons  who  have  lost  a 
limb  has  since  been  remitted  to  the  jurisdiction  and  dis- 
posal of  the  Subordinate  Lodge  to  which  admission  is 
asked.     (S.  J.  4384,  4417.) 

156.  A  member  of  the  Order  suspended  or  expelled 
from  a  Lodge  in  any  jurisdiction  or  sovereignty  shall  not 
be  admitted  to  membership  in  a  Lodge  in  another  juris- 
diction or  sovereignty  without  the  previously  obtained 
consent  of  the  Lodge  from  which  he  is  suspended  or  ex- 
pelled: Provided,  hotuever,  that  the  member  suspended 
or  expelled  for  the  non-payment  of  dues  only  may  be 
admitted  to  membership  in  another  jurisdiction  or  sover- 
eignty upon  such  conditions,  and  under  such  rules  and 
regulations  as  the  S.  G.  L.  may  have  prescribed  or  may 
at  any  time  adopt.     (S.  G.  L.  Const.,  Art.  XVI,  Sec.  4.) 

157.  No  persons  shall  be  admitted  to  membership 
or  reinstated  in  a  Lodge,  or  receive  the  degree  until  he 
shall  have  paid  the  amount  required  therefor  by  the  Con- 
stitution and  By-Laws.     (R.   L.  Const.,  Art.  XI,   Sec.    1.) 

158.  The  S.  Ci.  L.  has  passed  no  general  law  requir- 
ing any  length  of  residence  in  a  jurisdiction  before  an 
application  for  membership  can  be  made,  therefore,  where 


35  R.  L.  III. 

a  Grand  Lodge  has  fixed  no  period,  Lodges  may  fix  such 
period  by  By-Law,  and  such  periods  need  not  necessarily 
be  uniform.  Such  By-Laws  must  be  approved  by  the 
Grand  Lodge  to  which  such  Lodge  is  subordinate.  (S.  J. 
15802,   16071,   16116.) 

159.  A  ballot  electing  an  applicant  to  become  a  mem- 
ber should  be  annulled  by  a  two-thirds  vote  of  the  Lodge, 
should  he,  prior  to  initiation,  declare  a  lack  of  belief  in  a 
Supreme  Being.     (J.  1901,  p.  8,  319.) 

160.  A  Lodge  may  receive  an  application,  but  cannot 
initiate  a  candidate  under  age.     (S.  J.  XXL  p.  25,  284,  314.) 

PRIVILEGES  OF  MEMBERSHIP: 

161.  There  is  no  law  prohibiting  the  soliciting  of 
persons  to  petition  Lodges  for  membership;  on  the  con- 
trary, it  is  both  admissible  and  advisable  to  present  to 
good  citizens  the  advantages  of  the  Order  in  a  proper 
way,  ask  consideration,  and  if  they  are  favorably  im- 
pressed, to  request  their  application  for  membership. 
(S.  J.  11482,  11728,  11786.) 

162.  The  members  of  the  Order  may  unite  with  any 
lawful  society  or  association  whatsoever,  without  sever- 
ing their  connection  with  the  Order.       (S.  J.  8078,  8174.) 

163.  When  a  defunct  Lodge  has  been  resuscitated 
on  the  application  of  only  a  part  of  its  members,  only 
those  members  making  the  application  are  restored  at 
once,  and  the  other  members  who  are  in  good  standing 
may  resume  membership  upon  such  terms  as  the  local 
laws  of  the  jurisdiction  may  prescribe.     (S.  J.  5481,  5540.) 

164.  When  the  charter  of  a  Lodge  has  been  sur- 
rendered, and  restored,  the  revived  Lodge  may  admit  to 
membership  any  persons  who  were  or  had  been  in  mem- 
bership at  the  time  of  its  dissolution,  as  follows: 

(1.)  If  they  were  in  good  standing  at  the  time  of  the 
dissolution,  the  Lodge  may  admit  them  as  ancient  Odd 
Fellows,  upon  the  payment  of  such  fee  as  in  each  case 
may  be  determined  by  the  Lodge. 

(2.)  If  they  were  not  in  good  standing  by  reason 
of  non-payment,  or  of  dropping,  suspension  or  expulsion 
therefor,  the  Lodge  may  restore  them  to  good  standing 


R.  L.  III.  36 

on  the  same  terms  as  the  laws  provide  for  others  under 
like  disability. 

(3.)  If  they  had  lost  their  good  standing  by  sus- 
pension or  expulsion  for  other  causes,  the  Lodge  may 
refer  the  case  to  the  Grand  Master,  as  in  case  of  other 
applications   for   reinstatement.     (W-394;  T-1701.) 

165.  No  member  can  at  the  same  time  hold  office  or 
membership  in  two  distinct  Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  285; 
J.  1897,  p.  320,  336.) 

166.  A  member  who  has  been  expelled  or  dropped 
for  non-payment  of  dues  from  a  Lodge  which  subse- 
quently became  extinct,  can  only  regain  membership  in 
the  Order  through  the  Grand  Lodge  to  which  the  Lodge 
he  belonged  was  subordinate.     (S.  J.  3823,  3845.) 

167.  Persons  who  through  no  fault  of  their  own  are 
illegally  admitted  by  initiation  or  by  card  cannot  be  dis- 
charged from  membership  for  that  reason,  but  are  en- 
titled to  all  the  rights  enjoyed  by  other  members  of 
similar  rank,  and  the  same  rule  governs  the  case  of  an 
unworthy  person  who  may  have  been  inadvertantly  ad- 
mitted.    (S.  J.  3182,  3234,  3266,  7465,  7406,  7509.) 

168.  A  Lodge  working  in  the  language  of  a  par- 
ticular people,  possesses  the  right  to  receive  and  initiate 
an  applicant  who  speaks  and  more  thoroughly  under- 
stands another  language,  and  for  the  purpose  of  inter- 
pretation and  to  convey  a  more  complete  knowledge  of 
the  ceremony,  if  it  be  possible,  the  ritual,  lectures  and 
charges  may  be  delivered  in  the  mother  tongue  of  the 
applicant:  Provided,  always  that  the  ritual  shall  have 
been  published  therein,  and  that  the  passwords,  etc.,  shall 
be  communicated  in  English,  the  universal  language  for 
expressing  the  sounds  of  such  symbolic  words.  (S.  J. 
11895,  12217,  12281.) 

169.  A  member  who  is  reinstated  after  expulsion  is 
by  reinstatement  placed  in  the  same  position  as  if  he 
had  never  been  expelled,  and  from  the  date  of  his  rein- 
statement he  is  entitled  again  to  all  privileges  and  honors 
of  the   Order.     (W-822;  T-1994.) 

There  is  an  exception  to  this  rule  in  case  of  the  reinstatement 
of  one  who  has  been  expelled  for  intoxication.      (See   §1089  infra.— 
Editor.) 


37  R.  L.  III. 

171.  A  brother's  membership  is  in  the  Lodge  that 
elected  him,  although  his  initiation  by  another  Lodge  is 
illegal.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  24,  361,  371,  372.) 

That  is,  from  the  standpoint  of  the  Lodge  the  initiation  of  one 
whom  it  did  not  elect  to  member.ship  being  prohibited,  such  an  initi- 
ation may  be  spoken  of  as  "illegal."  But  from  the  standpoint  of 
the  brother  initiated,   the  initiation  is    "legal." — (Editor.) 

172.  A  brother  is  not  in  full  membership  until  he  has 
signed  the  Constitution  of  the  Lodge  accepting  him  as  a 
member.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  527,  979,  1002.) 

173.  One  who  has  been  initiated  into  the  Order 
through  inadvertence  when  no  application  had  been  made 
or  ballot  taken,  is  nevertheless  a  legal  member  of  the 
Order.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  30,  365,  394.) 

174.  A  person  initiated,  who  is  not  qualified  under 
the  law,  but  who  is  guilty  of  no  deception,  fraud  or 
wilful  concealment  in  making  his  application,  can  be  re- 
tained as  a  member  of  the  Order  until  his  membership  is 
terminated  in  the  manner  provided  by  law.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  506,  827,  873.) 

175.  A  person  was  regularly  proposed  and  elected 
to  membership  by  initiation,  and  a  special  meeting  was 
called  to  initiate  him,  when  only  four  members  of  the 
Lodge  attended,  who,  with  the  assistance  of  members 
of  other  Lodges,  initiated  him.  Held,  that  he  was  a  full 
member  of  the  Initiatory  Degree,  and  that  the  Lodge 
violated  the  law,  and  is  liable  to  discipline  for  conferring 
a  degree  with  less  than  a  quorum  of  its  members  present. 
(S.  J.  15212,  15534,  15584.) 

176.  A  brother  unlawfully  initiated  (unless  he  be 
guilty  of  fraud)  is  a  member  of  the  Order  and  entitled 
to  all  rights  and  privileges  until  his  membership  is  term- 
inated in  a. lawful  manner.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  24,  361,  371,  372.) 

177.  A  brother  was  admitted  as  an  Ancient  Odd 
Fellow  upon  the  payment  of  an  amount  less  than  the  fee 
prescribed  by  law  on  account  of  the  Secretary's  error, 
and  not  by  any  fraud  on  his  part.  Held,  that  his  mem- 
bership cannot  afterwards  be  disturbed  on  account  of 
such  error.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  42,  365,  394.) 

178.  It  is  now  settled  law  that  mere  irregularities, 
without  fraud  do   not  vitiate  an  admission,  and  that  an 


R.  L.  III.  38 

illegal  admission  by  card  is  not  void.     (S.  J.  Decision  No. 
8,  12353,  12676,  12709.) 

179.  An  initiation  by  a  Lodge  during  the  time  of  its 
suspension  of  expulsion  cannot  be  legalized  by  any  order 
of  the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  1391,  1494,  1513.) 

180.  Members  of  the  Order  have  no  right  to  form 
independent  organizations  with  officers  to  take  the  name 
of  the  Lodge  to  which  they  belong,  and  confine  their 
membership  to  that  Lodge,  the  Lodge  to  have  no  con- 
trol or  supervision  of  any  kind  over  such  organization. 
(S.  J.  15176,  15534,  15584.) 

181.  When  a  member  joins  a  Lodge  under  an  as- 
sumed name  it  is  a  matter  for  local  legislation  to  permit 
him  to  sign  his  right  name  to  the  Constitution  and  change 
his  name  on  the  Lodge  records,  and  continue  his  mem- 
bership under  the  new  name.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  529,  979, 
1002.) 

MEMBERSHIP,  WHEN  AND  HOW  ACQUIRED: 

182.  Initiation  makes  a  person  a  member  entitled  to 
the  advantages  and  benefits  of  membership  excepting 
those  that  depend  upon  grade  and  rank.  When  one  has 
received  the  degree,  if  otherwise  qualified,  he  has  the 
right  to  a  voice  and  a  vote  in  the  proceedings  of  the 
Lodge,  and  may  propose  as  well  as  vote  for  a  candidate 
for  membership.     (J.  1857,  p.  94.) 

183.  IMcmbership  is  acquired  primarily  by  initiation. 
(U.  S.  Digest  1847,  p.  52.) 

184.  Honorary  membership  is  in  no  circumstances 
allowed.     (S.  J.  811.) 

185.  The  local  law  fixes  the  time  membership  by 
card  dates  from,  or,  in  the  absence  of  such  local  law,  it 
dates  from  election.     (S.  J.  10252,  10487,  10511.) 

186.  One  who  deposits  his  withdrawal  card  in  a 
Lodge  is  a  member  of  that  Lodge  from  the  time  of  his 
election  as  a  member,  unless  the  local  law  provides,  as 
preliminary  to  membership,  that  some  other  condition, 
for  instance,  that  he  sign  the  Constitution  before  becom- 
ing a  member,  shall  be  performed  by  him.  In  this  Grand 
Jurisdiction  his  membership  dates  from  the  time  he  signs 
the  Constitution  unless  he  is  introduced  to  the  Lodge 
and   afterwards    participates    in    its    business    and   deliber- 


39  R.  L.  III. 

ations,  when  his  membership  will  date  from  his  introduc- 
tion.    (S.  J.  10251,  10487,  10511;  J.  V,  p.  14,  19.) 

SALOON-KEEPERS,  ETC.: 

187.  A  woman  is  ineligible  to  membership  if  she  is  a  saloon- 
keeper. (J.  1901,  p.  13,  270,  294.)  The  general  law  defining  saloon- 
keepers and  prescribing  their  qualifications  and  disqualifications  may 
be  found  in  the  following  sections  under  this  heading.  It  would  seem 
that  under  Clause  2  of  Section  1  of  Art.  Ill,  an  Odd  Fellow  who  is 
a  saloon-keeper,  and  who  was  in  that  business  prior  to  1895,  and  who 
has  continued  in  that  business  since  the  legislation  of  1895,  would  be 
eligible  to  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge. — (Editor.) 

188.  A  saloon-keeper,  bar-tender  or  professional 
gambler  is  not  eligible  to  membership.  (S.  G.  L.  Const., 
Art.  XVI,  Sec.  5.  See  also  Offenses  and  Penalties  for 
decisions  as  to  who  are  saloon-keepers  and  bar-tenders.) 

189.  A  bookkeeper  or  shipping  clerk  for  a  brewery 
is  not  a  saloon-keeper  or  bar-tender,  and  if  otherwise 
qualified,  is  eligible  to  membership.     (J.  1901,  p.  11,  319.) 

190.  A  driver  of  a  beer-wagon  delivering  beer  to 
saloons  or  to  families  in  unbroken  cases  is  eligible  to 
membership,  if  otherwise  qualified.     (J.   1901,  p.   11,  319.) 

191.  A  member  who  was  a  saloon-keeper  and  a 
member  of  the  Order  prior  to  the  adoption  of  the  amend- 
ment of  1895,  and  has  been  continuously  in  such  business 
without  change,  is  not  liable  to  charges.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
21,  284,  314.) 

192.  The  owner  of  a  saloon  or  one  having  money 
invested  in  a  saloon  or  his  name  on  the  sign,  as  "A's 
Saloon,"  is  a  saloon-keeper,  although  the  saloon  is  run 
by  an  employee,  and  the  owner  has  nothing  to  do  with 
selling  any  liquor.  In  such  case,  such  person  is  ineligible 
to  membership  in  the  Order,  or  if  a  member  is  liable  to 
expulsion  if  he  went  into  such  business  since  the  amend- 
ment of  1895.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  21,  284,  314.) 

193.  If  a  brother  purchased  an  interest  in  a  saloon 
since  1895  he  is  liable  to  expulsion  from  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  22,  284,  314.) 

194.  Where  a  brother  of  the  Order  owns  a  Lodge 
room  rented  by  an  Odd  Fellows'  Lodge,  and  on  the  second 
floor  of  the  same  building  there  is  a  dance  hall  which  he 
rents  with  bar  privileges,  the  saloon  license  for  the  bar 
being  in  the  name  of  the  owner  of  the  building,  he  is  a 
saloon-keeper.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  35,  219,  243.) 


R.  L.  III.  40 

195.  A  clerk  in  a  packing  house  selling  whiskey  in 
packages  of  not  less  than  half  a  pint,  not  to  be  drunk  on 
the  premises,  is  not  a  saloon-keeper.  To  constitute  a 
saloon-keeper  there  must  not  only  be  selling  in  small 
quantities,  but  also  the  drinking  on  the  premises.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  19,  284,  314.) 

196.  A  man  acting  as  agent  for  the  sale  of  beer  by 
the  keg  is  eligible  to  membership  in  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  21,  284,  314.) 

197.  A  brother  selling  drinks  at  a  bar  in  a  club  room 
is  violating  the  law  if  he  entered  the  business  since  the 
law  of  1895  went  into  effect.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  19,  284,  314.) 

198.  A  brother  entering  the  saloon  business  since  the 
adoption  of  the  law  of  1895  may  avoid  expulsion  from  the 
Order  if  he  abandons  such  business  in  good  faith  and  his 
Lodge  determines  not  to  impose  such  penalty.  (S.  J.  XXI, 
p.  20,  284,  314.) 

199.  A  brother  who  was  in  the  saloon  business  prior 
to  1895,  and  who  became  suspended  for  non-payment  of 
dues,  may  be  reinstated  to  membership.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
21,  321,  341.) 

200.  A  brother  who  is  a  saloon-keeper,  and  who  has 
been  in  that  business  since  the  legislation  of  1895,  but 
whose  Lodge  has  become  defunct,  is  eligible  to  member- 
ship in  another  Lodge  upon  a  certificate  from  the  Grand 
Secretary  that  he  was  in  good  standing  when  his  Lodge 
surrendered  its  charter.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  22,  284,  314.) 

201.  A  brother  who  was  a  saloon-keeper  prior  to 
1895,  and  whose  Lodge  has  become  defunct,  may  join  in 
an  application  for  a  charter  for  a  new  Lodge  upon  re- 
ceiving a  proper  card.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  22,  284,  314.) 

202.  A  member  going  out  of  the  saloon  business 
after  the  adoption  of  the  amendment  of  1895  violates  the 
law  by  resuming  the  saloon  business  subsequently.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  19,  284,  314.) 

203.  It  is  the  duty  of  a  Lodge  to  prefer  charges 
against  a  member  who  goes  into  the  saloon  business  since 
the  adoption  of  the  amendment  of  1895.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
21,  284,  314.) 

204.  A  Lodge  should  not  grant  a  withdrawal  card 
to  a  member  when  it  has  knowledge  that  he  has  violated 


41  R.  L.  III. 

the  law  by  engaging  in  the  business  of  saloon-keeper  or 
bar-tender,  but  should  perfer  charges.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  20, 
284,  314.) 

205.  In  discipline  cases  against  a  saloon-keeper  or  bar-tender, 
under  Section  5,  Article  XVI,  S.  G.  L.  Const.,  it  is  necessary  for  the 
charges  and  specifications  to  allege  that  the  accused  is  a  saloon- 
keeper (or  bar-tender)  ;  that  he  was  not  engaged  in  such  business  at 
the  time  said  law  went  into  effect,  and  that  he  entered  the  business 
after  the  law  went  into  effect;  otherwise  the  charges  and  specifications 
will  not  state  an  offense. —  (Editor.) 

206.  Resigning  from  membership  severs  connection 
with  the  Order.  A  brother  who  engages  in  the  retail 
liquor  business  after  resigning  membership  is  not  subject 
to  discipline,  and  upon  his  subsequently  retiring  from 
such  business  is  again  eligible  to  membership  as  an 
ancient  Odd  Fellow,  and  may  be  received  or  rejected 
as  the  Lodge  may  determine,  but  the  Lodge  may  con- 
sider the  circumstances  of  his  resignation  and  engaging 
in  the  saloon  business.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  523,  757,  844.) 

207.  Where  certain  members  of  the  Order  have 
violated  the  law  with  reference  to  saloon-keepers,  they 
may  resign  membership,  and  the  resignation  must  be  ac- 
cepted. But  if  charges  are  preferred  against  such  mem- 
bers at  any  time  before  the  close  of  the  meeting  during 
which  the  resignation  of  membership  was  presented,  then, 
and  in  that  case,  the  resignation  shall  not  be  operative 
until  the  proper  disposition  of  such  charges.  (S.  J. 
XXIII,  p.  35,  219,  239,  253,  300,  309.) 

208.  Where  a  member  of  the  Order  has  become  a  bar- 
tender contrary  to  the  law,  and  the  Lodge  has  knowledge 
of  the  fact,  but  has  permitted  him  to  apply  for  and  re- 
ceive a  withdrawal  card,  no  charges  having  been  preferred 
against  him,  the  granting  of  the  withdrawal  card  is  legal. 
(S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  37,  219,  239,  253.) 

209.  The  constitutional  provision  does  not  exclude 
from  membership  a  waiter  in  a  hotel  or  restaurant  where 
there  is  no  bar.     (S.  J.  14686,  14948,  15019.) 

210.  A  waiter  in  a  dining  room  of  a  hotel  who  serves 
meals  to  guests,  and  with  them  wine  or  other  liquors 
called  for  only,  cannot  be  classed  as  a  bar-tender.  (S.  J. 
14686,  14948,  15019.) 

211.  Initiatory  members  engaged  in  the  saloon  busi- 
ness when  the  law  was  enacted,  if  they  have  continued 


R.  L.  III.  42 

in  it,  may  advance  to  all  the  degrees,  though  so  engaged 
when  seeking  advancement.     (S.  J.  14683,  14948,  15019.) 

212.  A  member  may  change  his  membership,  though 
in  the  saloon  business,  without  subjecting  himself  to  any 
disability  under  Section  5,  Article  XVI.  Deposit  of  his 
Visiting  Card,  and  being  elected  to  membership  upon  it 
before  his  Lodge  votes  the  withdrawal  card,  makes  his 
membership  continuous,  though  it  is  not  completed  until 
the  card  reaches  the  Lodge  which  he  has  joined  and  he 
has  signed  the   Constitution.      (S.  J.    14687,   14948,   15019.) 

213.  A  tavern  keeper  is  not  necessarily  excluded  from 
membership  under  Section  5,  Article  XVI,  of  the  S.  G.  L. 
Constitution.  If,  however,  he  has  a  bar  in  his  house 
and  tends  it,  he  is  a  bar-tender,  and,  as  such,  excluded. 
(S.  J.  14687,  14948,  15019.) 

214.  A  druggist  is  not  a  saloon-keeper,  though  he 
sell  liquor  for  other  than  mechanical,  chemical  and  medi- 
cinal purposes.  (S.  J.  14685,  14948,  15019.)  But  should 
a  person  keeping  a  drug  store  open  a  bar  and  sell  liquor 
over  it,  to  be  drunk  on  his  premises,  he  would  become  a 
saloon-keeper  as  well,  and  should  he  tend  bar  as  well  as 
his  drug  store,  he  would  become  a  bar-tender,  and  inad- 
missible to  the  Order.     (S.  J.  14685,  14948,  15019.) 

215.  It  is  an  evasion  of  Section  5,  of  Article  XVI,  of 
the  S.  G.  L.  Constitution,  and  in  violation  of  it,  to  pro- 
pose and  admit  to  membership,  under  the  title  of  "Clerk," 
a  person  that  tends  bar  in  a  saloon  or  other  drinking 
place  having  a  bar,  over  which  liquors  are  dispensed  to 
customers,  though  he  sell  sandwiches  and  other  light 
edibles.     (S.  J.  14687,  15078,  15093.) 

216.  It  is  also  an  evasion  of  the  law  to  admit  a 
saloon-keeper  under  the  designation  of  "a  restaurant 
keeper,"  a  restaurant  being  an  eating  house,  as  dis- 
tinguished from  a  saloon  or  drinking  house.  (S.  J.  14687, 
15010,  15072.) 

217.  The  keeper  of  a  hotel  with  a  bar  attached  is  a 
saloon-keeper  if  he  is  the  proprietor  or  manager  of  the 
bar,  and  he  is  a  bar-tender  if  he  tends  to  the  bar  himself. 
If  he  should,  in  good  faith,  lease  or  rent  out  the  bar 
privilege  to  another,  and  should  retain  no  interest  or  con- 


43  R.  L.  III. 

trol  in  it,  he  would  not  be  a  saloon-keeper.     (S.  J.  XXI, 
p.  525,  752,  820.) 

218.  Being  engaged  in  the  saloon  business  prior  to 
January  1,  1896,  as  a  partner  therein,  and  having  the  per- 
sonal conduct  and  management  of  the  business,  the  sub- 
sequent purchase  by  the  brother  of  the  interest  of  his 
co-partner,  would  not  render  him  liable  or  amenable  to 
the  law.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  540,  752,  820.) 

219.  Where  one  carries  drinks  and  liquors  of  all 
kinds  from  a  bar  to  customers  seated  at  a  table  in  a  beer 
garden,  where  there  are  tables,  chairs  and  a  small  stage, 
where  theatrical  performances  are  conducted  in  the  pres- 
ence of  the  audience,  he  is  a  bar-tender.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
541,  752,  820.) 

220.  Where  a  saloon-keeper  was  engaged  in  that 
business  prior  to  the  passage  of  Section  5,  of  Article  XVI, 
S.  G.  L.  Constitution,  and  continued  in  such  business 
after  the  adoption  of  said  Section,  the  expiration  of  his 
saloon  license  is  not  of  itself  sufficient  evidence  that  he 
intended  to  go  out  of  the  business,  if,  within  a  reasonable 
time,  he  procured  another  license  and  went  into  the  same 
business  at  another  place.     (J.  1905,  p.  160.) 

WHITE  PERSON: 

221.  The  words  "free  white  males,"  in  Article  XVI, 
Sec.  3,  of  the  S.  G.  L.  Constitution,  are  descriptive  of  the 
pure  Caucasian  race,  and  exclude  all  other  races  and 
colors  from  membership.  Chinese,  Indians,  Half-breeds 
and  Polynesians  are  not  eligible  to  membership.  (S.  J. 
2948-2953,  both  inclusive;  2973,  2974,  7365,  7451.)  A  per- 
son with  one-quarter  Indian  blood  is  not  eligible  to  mem- 
bership in  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  506,  827,  873.)  The 
legislation  of  the  S.  G.  L.  which  permitted  Grand  Lodges 
of  certain  jurisdictions  to  admit  persons  of  mixed  white 
and  Indian  blood  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  330)  has  been  repealed. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  940,  941.)  Persons  of  mixed  foreign  and 
Chinese  parentage  are  not  eligible  to  membership.  (S.  J. 
XX,  p.  24,  361,  371.) 

222.  Syrians  belong  to  the  Caucasian,  or  white  race, 
and  are  eligible  to  membership  in  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  434,  675,  709.) 


R.  L.  Ill,  §1.  44 

GOOD  MORAL  CHARACTER: 

223.  What  constitutes  good  moral  character  is  left 
to  local  action  and  is  generally  to  be  determined  by  a 
vote  of  the  Lodge  in  the  reception  of  a  member.  (S.  J. 
6197,  6222.) 

224.  WHO  ELIGIBLE.— Section  1.— The  per- 
sons herein  specified  shall  be  eligible  to  membership 
in  this  Lodge,  subject  to  the  laws  relative  to  resi- 
dence of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge  and  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois ;  and  conditioned  further, 
that  all  female  applicants  shall  be  white  women, 
who  have  attained  the  age  of  eighteen  years  (except 
that  the  said  age  limit  shall  not  apply  to  applicants 
who  are  the  wives  of  Odd  Fellows,)  who  believe  in 
a  supreme,  intelligent  Creator  and  Ruler  of  the 
Universe,  and  who  are  of  good  moral  character: 

Clause  L  All  persons  who  have  received  the 
Rebekah  Degree. 

Clause  2.  All  Odd  Fellows  in  good  standing, 
their  waves,  daughters,  sisters,  and  mothers.  Also 
the  daughters,  sisters,  and  mothers  of  deceased  Odd 
Fellows  w4io  at  the  time  of  their  death  were  mem- 
bers of  our  Order. 

Clause  3.  All  unmarried  white  women.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  397,  427,  428;  J.  1907,  p.  385,  386,  425.) 

225.  The  only  method  of  transferring  membership 
without  a  withdrawal  card  or  dismissal  certificate  is  by 
resignation  of  membership  and  receiving  a  certificate  to 
that  effect.  Such  certificate  is  sufficient  evidence  that 
the  member  was  in  good  standing  at  the  time  of  resig- 
nation. (S.  J.  XX,  p.  538,  995,  1006;  S.  J.  2460,  2482,  2502, 
3827,  3846.     But  see  §1289  infra.) 

But  membership  may  be  transferred  by  petitioning  for  member- 
ship on  a  Visiting  card  or  on  an  Official  Certificate  as  in  a  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge.      (See   §   304  to   313,   inclusive,  infra. —  (Editor.) 

226.  In  the  case  of  brothers,  membership  in  a  Re- 
bekah  Lodge   is  dependent  upon  continuous   good   stand- 


45  R.  L.  Ill,  §1. 

ing  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge;  except  that  if  a  brother 
shall  take  a  withdrawal  card  from  the  Subordinate  Lodge 
of  which  he  may  be  a  member,  his  membership  in  his 
Rebekah  Lodge  shall  not  be  affected  thereby  for  one  year 
from  the  date  of  said  withdrawal  card,  if,  during  that 
time  he  shall  keep  his  dues  paid  up  in  the  Rebekah 
Lodge;  and,  if  he  shall,  during  said  year,  become  a  mem- 
ber of  another  by  deposit  of  said  card,  his  membership  in 
the  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  not  be  affected  by  the  taking  of 
the  card.     (S.  J.  14878,  14990,  15070,  15171,  15534,  15584.) 

227.  If  a  brother  is  suspended  or  expelled  from  his 
Subordinate  Lodge,  his  membership  terminates  at  once  in 
his  Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  34,  284,  314.) 

228.  A  woman  joins  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  Some  months 
after  she  moves  to  another  town  in  the  same  jurisdiction, 
where  she  makes  application  to  a  Rebekah  Lodge  located 
there  for  admission  by  initiation.  She  is  duly  elected 
before  it  is  learned  by  the  last  named  Lodge  that  she  held 
membership  in  another  Lodge.  She  never  applied  for, 
nor  received,  a  card  from  the  Lodge  she  first  joined.  The 
status  of  such  a  person  is  that  she  is  still  a  member  of 
the  first  Lodge  she  joined,  never  having  legally  become 
a  member  of  the  last  named  Lodge.  She  is  liable  to 
have  charges  preferred  against  her  in  the  first  Lodge,  and 
while  she  acted  in  possible  ignorance  of  the  law,  of  which 
the  Lodge  must  be  the  judge  on  the  trial,  such  ignorance, 
if  proven,  may  be  taken  in  mitigation  of  the  offense, 
which  is  seeking  to  become  a  member  of  a  Lodge  by 
fraudulent  misrepresentation.  The  Grand  Master,  after 
his  attention  has  been  called  to  the  case,  should  direct 
the  second  Lodge  to  strike  the  name  of  the  woman  from 
the  roll  of  membership,  and  notify  the  Lodge  to  which 
she  really  belongs  to  prefer  charges  against  her.  (S.  J. 
15753,  16071,  16116.) 

229.  A  lady,  desiring  admission  into  a  Rebekah 
Lodge,  presented  herself,  with  a  number  of  others,  in  the 
ante-room  of  the  Lodge.  She,  with  others,  was  then  ad- 
mitted and  initiated.  Subsequent  to  the  initiation  it  was 
discovered  that  no  application  from  this  lady  had  been 
filed  with  the  Lodge,  no  Committee  appointed  to  investi- 
gate, and  no  ballot  had  ever  been  taken  upon  her  ad- 
mission.    It  was  held  that  the  person  admitted  to  mem- 


R.  L.  Ill,  §1.  46 

bership  under  such  conditions  must,  after  her  initiation, 
be  deemed  a  member  of  the  Lodge,  to  the  same  extent 
as  if  legally  initiated.  If  the  error  was  on  the  part  of 
the  Lodge,  the  Lodge  cannot  take  advantage  of  its  own 
wrong.  If  the  individual  has  been  guilty  of  fraud  in  ob- 
taining admission,  she  becomes  liable  to  charges  and  to 
punishment  for  such  fraud;  but  having  been  admitted 
to  the  Lodge  and  recognized  as  a  member,  she  must  con- 
tinue to  be  deemed  such  until  her  membership  is  termi- 
nated in  a  manner  provided  by  law.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  30,  365, 
394.)  A  sister  admitted  to  membership  by  error  on  the 
part  of  the  Lodge,  or  innocently  on  her  own  part,  should 
not  be  required  to  resign  her  membership,  nor  be  ex- 
pelled.    (S.  J.  XX,  p.  539,  988,  1004.) 

230.  Under  the  former  Rebekah  Code  (White's  Di- 
gest of  1895)  it  was  held  that  good  moral  character  and 
a  belief  in  a  Supreme  Being,  though  not  specified  as  con- 
ditions of  membership  in  Subdivisions  1  and  2,  of  Section 
6  of  the  Code,  are  prerequisites  to  membership,  as  much 
as  under  Subdivision  3.  Those  conditions  are  "Ancient 
landmarks,"  and  are  not  repealed  by  Section  34.  (S.  J. 
14240,  14487,  14570.)  Since  this  decision,  Section  6  of  the 
Code  has  been  amended  by  specifically  enumerating  these 
qualifications. 

232.  The  territorial  limit  to  membership,  as  fixed  by 
the  S.  G.  L.  for  Subordinate  Lodges  and  Encampments, 
does  not  apply  to  Rebekah  Lodges  unless  made  so  by 
local  law.  (S.  J.  14675,  14948,  15019.)  Unless  prohibited 
by  local  law,  a  woman  seeking  to  obtain  the  Rebekah 
Degree  is  not  required  to  apply  to  the  Lodge  nearest  her 
residence.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509,  827,  873.)  But  the  non- 
applicability  of  the  general  law  as  to  territorial  limit  to 
membership  above  set  forth  is  only  to  Rebekah  Lodges 
within  the  same  (Grand)  Jurisdiction;  so  that,  where  an 
applicant  is  a  resident  of  a  (Grand)  Jurisdiction  other 
than  the  one  in  which  she  seeks  admission,  consent  of 
that  (Grand)  Jurisdiction  must  be  obtained  before  she 
can  be  legally  admitted  in  the  contiguous  (Grand)  Juris- 
diction.    (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  47,  284,  314.) 

233.  A  lady  is  not  eligible  to  membership  if  a  saloon- 
keeper or  bar-tender,  neither  is  she  if  she  only  occasion- 
ally waits   on  the  bar  as  an  accommodation  to  the  pro- 


47  R.  L.  Ill,  §1. 

prietor,  unless  her  application  is  made  on  an  unexpired 
card,  and  she  has  been  constantly  in  membership,  and  in 
the  prohibited  business  since  before  the  adoption  of  the 
S.  G.  L.  constitutional  amendment  to  Article  XVI  in  1895. 
(J.  1901,  p.  13,  270,  294.) 

234.  The  holder  of  a  certificate  of  resignation  of 
membership  may  petition  for  membership  thereon.  (J. 
1901,  p.  13,  270,  294.) 

235.  The  election  of  a  candidate  to  membership 
should  be  annulled  by  vote  of  the  Lodge,  should  the  can- 
didate, prior  to  initiation,  express  a  disbelief  in  a  Supreme 
Being.     (J.  1901,  p.  IS,  270,  294.) 

CLAUSE  1: 

236.  Suspended  members  are  eligible  to  membership 
upon  a  card  or  certificate,  provided  Section  10  of  the 
Rebekah  Code  is  complied  with.  (S.  J.  14676,  15002,  15070.) 

237.  A  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  has  taken  a 
withdrawal  card  that  has  expired.  Her  husband  has  also 
taken  one  from  his  (Subordinate)  Lodge  that  has  expired. 
She  can  regain  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  without 
her  husband  first  joining  the  Subordinate  Lodge,  under 
first  Subdivision  of  Section  6  (of  the  Code)  by  depositing 
her  card  with  her  application  for  membership.  (S.  J. 
14241;   Decision  No.  34.) 

238.  Tlie  first  clause  of  Section  6  (of  the  Code)  "All 
persons  who  have  had  the  Degree,"  does  not  embrace  an 
expelled  Odd  Fellow  who  once  had  the  Degree,  nor  his 
wife,  if  she  has  been  expelled,  though  she  may  have  had 
the  Degree.     (S.  J.  14241,  14487,  14570.) 

239.  A  lady  who  has  received  the  Rebekah  Degree 
in  a  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  whose  present  husband  is 
not  an  Odd  Fellow,  is  eligible  to  membership  in  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  on  a  certificate  signed  by  the  Noble  Grand  and 
Secretary  of  the  Subordinate  Lodge,  under  seal  of  the 
Lodge  certifying  that  she  received  the  Rebekah  Degree  in 
said  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  43,  219,  239,  253.) 

240.  If  the  Subordinate  Lodge  to  which  a  brother 
belonged  has  become  defunct,  and  both  he  and  his  wife 
have  received  the  (Rebekah)  Degree,  the  wife  is  eligible 
for  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  upon  production  of 
proof  of  being  in  possession  of  the  Degree.    The  husband 


R.  L.  Ill,  §1. 48 

is  eligible  when  he  becomes  a  member  in  good  standing 
in  a  Subordinate  Lodge.     (S.  J.  14676,  14949,  15067.) 

CLAUSE  2: 

241.  The  wife  of  an  Odd  Fellow  in  good  standing  is 
eligible  to  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  irrespective 
of  her  age.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  397,  427,  428;  J.  1904,  p.  270,  308.) 

242.  A  married  woman,  under  the  age  of  eighteen 
years,  whose  husband  is  not  an  Odd  Fellow,  is  not  eligible 
to  membership  on  account  of  her  age,  though  she  be 
otherwise  qualified.  Only  the  wives  of  Odd  Fellows  may 
be  admitted  under  the  age  of  eighteen  years.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  44,  219,  243.) 

243.  The  daughter,  sister  or  mother  of  an  Odd  Fel- 
low in  good  standing,  is  eligible  to  membership,  though 
married  to  a  man  who  is  not  an  Odd  Fellow.  So  also  is 
the  daughter,  sister  or  mother  of  a  deceased  Odd  Fellow 
(who  at  the  time  of  his  death  was  a  member  of  the  Order,) 
though  she  be  married  to  a  man  who  is  not  an  Odd  Fel- 
low. (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  6,  Clause  2;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509, 
827,  873;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  536,  752,  820.) 

244.  A  married  lady  who  does  not  live  with,  but  is 
not  divorced  from  her  husband  (who  is  an  Odd  Fellow) 
and  is  likewise  the  sister  of  an  Odd  Fellow,  is  seeking 
membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  may  apply  as  the  wife 
or  as  the  sister  of  an  Odd  Fellow,  as  she  may  choose. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  538,  993,  1006.)  A  married  lady  whose 
husband  is  not  a  member  of  the  Order,  but  whose 
father  or  brother  is  a  member  of  the  Order,  in  good 
standing,  is  eligible  to  membership  under  Clause  2  of 
Section  6  of  the  Rebekah  Code.  The  fact  that  she  is  mar- 
ried to  a  man  who  is  not  an  Odd  Fellow  does  not  render 
her  ineligible.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  43,  219,  243.) 

245.  The  adoption  of  the  following  amendment  to 
Section  6  of  the  Rebekah  Code  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  330,  332, 
355,  373)  "All  Odd  Fellows  in  good  standing,  their  wives, 
their  daughters,  their  sisters  and  their  mothers,  and  the 
daughters,  sisters  and  mothers  of  deceased  Odd  Fellows," 
did  not  repeal  Subdivision  3  of  said  Section,  which  pro- 
vides that  "All  unmarried  white  women"  are  eligible  to 
the  degree.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509,  827,  873.) 


49  R.  L.  Ill,  §1. 

246.  An  initiatory  degree  member  is  qualified  to  be- 
come a  charter  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
15003,  15087.)  An  initiatory  member  is  eligible  to  member- 
ship in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  14240,  14487,  14570; 
S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365,  394.) 

247.  Under  Section  6,  Subdivision  1,  of  the  Rebekah 
Code,  a  woman  that  is  of  mixed  blood  (Indian  or  Negro) 
who  is  the  wife  of  an  Odd  Fellow  in  good  standing,  is 
not  eligible  to  membership.     (S.  J.  14240,  14487,  14570.) 

248.  A  lady  who  is  the  daughter  of  a  saloon-keeper 
is  not  by  that  fact  ineligible  to  membership.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  32,  365,  394.) 

249.  A  married  woman,  not  the  wife  of  an  Odd  Fel- 
low, is  not  entitled  to  membership  because  she  is  the  step- 
mother of  an  Odd  Fellow.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  508,  827,  873.) 

250.  The  wife  of  an  Odd  Fellow  who  holds  an  un- 
expired withdrawal  card  is  not  eligible  to  membership. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  538  (Decisions  51,  52  and  53)  539,  988,  1004.) 

251.  A  brother  holding  a  live  withdrawal  card  from 
a  Subordinate  and  a  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  join  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge  until  he  has  first  connected  himself  with  a 
Subordinate  Lodge.     (S.  J.  15172,  15534,  15584,  15613.) 

252.  The  wife  and  husband,  both  of  whom  once  be- 
longed to  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  but  took  withdrawal  cards, 
now  out  of  date,  can  join  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  14240, 
14487,  14570.)  But  the  husband's  application  must  be 
accompanied  with  documentary  evidence  of  good  standing 
in  a  Subordinate  Lodge.     (S.  J.  14950,  15067.) 

253.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  act  upon  the  report 
of  its  Committee  and  receive  into  membership  the  wife 
of  a  brother  of  a  Lodge  acting,  at  the  time  of  application, 
under  dispensation,  but  whose  Grand  Lodge  refused  it  a 
charter  before  the  Rebekah  Lodge  had  acted  on  the  re- 
port of  the  Committee.     (S.  J.  14673,  14949,  15067.) 

254.  A  deceased  Odd  Fellow  must  have  been  a  mem- 
ber of  our  Order  at  the  time  of  his  death  to  render  his 
daughter,  sister  or  mother  eligible  to  membership  in  a 
Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  508,  827,  873;  as  modified 
by  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  397,  427,  428;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  6, 
Clause  2.) 


R.  L.  Ill,  §1.  50 

255.  A  married  sister  of  an  Odd  Fellow  is  eligible 
to  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  by  virtue  of  such 
relationship,  irrespective  of  the  fact  that  her  husband  may 
not  be  a  member  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509,  827, 
873.) 

256.  The  legally  adopted  child  of  an  Odd  Fellow,  in 
a  jurisdiction  where  the  laws  provide  that  such  child 
possesses  all  the  rights  of  a  natural-born  child,  is  eligible 
to  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  510, 
827,  873.) 

257.  A  brother  who  has  received  the  Rebekah  De- 
gree in  a  Grand  Lodge  or  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  is  eligible 
to  be  an  applicant  for  a  charter  for  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  or  to 
be  admitted  to  membership  in  such  Lodge  after  its  institu- 
tion, on  a  favorable  ballot:  Provided,  he  is  in  good 
standing  in  his  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  is  not  a  suspended 
or  expelled  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  13257, 
13548,  13671.) 

'258.  A  lady  whose  husband  is  not  an  Odd  Fellow 
is  not  eligible  to  membership  because  her  father  held  an 
expired  withdrawal  card  at  the  time  of  his  death.  (J.  1901, 
p.  13,  270,  294.) 

259.  A  withdrawal  card  from  a  Subordinate  Lodge, 
whether  expired  or  unexpired,  does  not  qualify  a  wife, 
mother,  sister  or  daughter  of  the  holder  for  membership 
in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.     (J.  1901,  p.  13,  270,  294.) 

260.  A  white  lady  eighteen  years  old,  wliose  husband 
is  not  an  Odd  Fellow,  is  eligible  to  membership  on  a 
certificate  from  a  Subordinate  Lodge  showing  that  her 
father,  brother  or  son  is  a  member  therein,  in  good  stand- 
ing, or  was  a  member  at  the  time  of  death.  It  should  also 
show  the  relationship  existing  between  the  lady  and  the 
member.     (J.  1901,  p.  13,  270,  294.) 

CLAUSE  3: 

261.  A  widow — an  unmarried  woman — is  entitled  to 
be  admitted  to  a  Rebekah  Lodge  under  the  new  Code, 
although  her  husband  was  not  an  Odd  Fellow  in  good 
standing  at  the  time  of  his  death.  (S.  J.  14239,  14487, 
14570.) 

262.  A  woman  divorced  absolutely  from  her  husband 
is  an  "unmarried  woman,"  and  eligible  to  membership  in 


51  R.  L.  Ill,  §2. 

a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  14675,  14975,  15069;  S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  31,  365,  394.) 

263.  The  marriage  of  a  sLster  to  a  man  not  an  Odd 
Fellow  does  not  affect  her  standing  in  the  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
15753,  16071,  16116.) 

264.  If  by  "grass  widow"  is  meant  one  living  apart 
from  her  husband,  he  being  alive,  she  is  not  eligible  to 
membership.     (S.  J.  14676,  14948,  15019.) 

265.  A  woman  whose  husband  is  dead  is  eligible  to 
membership,  regardless  of  the  fact  that  she  may  have  no 
relationship  as  a  basis  for  membership,  she  being  an  un- 
married woman.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  537,  752,  820.) 

266.  RESIDENCE    OF    CANDIDATE.— Sec. 

2. — A  candidate  for  membership  in  this  Lodge 
by  initiation  shall  have  resided  in  the  jurisdiction 
of  Illinois  at  least  six  months  previous  to  application 
for  membership.     (J.  1895,  p.  200.) 

267.  The  penahy  to  be  inflicted  upon  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  violating  the  provisions  of  the  law,  prohibiting 
such  Lodges  from  admitting  persons  as  members  not  re- 
siding within  their  territorial  jurisdiction  without  having 
secured  proper  permission  as  provided  by  law,  shall  be 
as  follows:  Such  Lodge  shall,  upon  conviction  of  such 
offense,  immediately  remit  to  the  Rebekah  Lodge  having 
such  territorial  jurisdiction,  initiation  fees,  received  from 
the  members  so  admitted  to  membership,  and  from  time 
to  time  thereafter  when  requested  by  the  Lodge  which 
has  received  the  initiation  fee,  pay  to  such  Lodge  all 
dues  received  from  said  member  so  admitted  to  member- 
ship, and  shall  continue  to  pay  all  such  dues  while  such 
member  shall  retain  his  or  her  membership.  Provided, 
nevertheless,  that  this  resolution  shall  not  effect  the  pres- 
ent legislation  or  any  decisions  in  respect  of,  and  relation 
to  members  being  admitted  by  cards,  under  facts  hereto- 
fore recited.  (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  721,  111,  784.)  This  legis- 
lation repeals  the  local  law  prescribing  a  penalty  for  the 
invasion  of  the  jurisdiction  of  another  Lodge.  S.  J.  1907, 
p.  36,  219,  239,  253.)  It  applies  in  all  cases  wherein  an 
applicant  has  been  admitted  as  a  member  of  one  Lodge 
while  residing  within   the  jurisdiction  of  another.     (S.  J. 


R.  L.  Ill,  §3.  52 

XXIII,  p.  39,  40,  219,  239,  253.)  The  fees  for  initiation 
and  the  amount  received  for  dues  should  be  paid  to  the 
Lodge  whose  jurisdiction  has  been  invaded.  (S.  J.  XXIII, 
id. 

268.  Where  a  person  residing  in  one  state  makes 
application  for  membership  and  is  regularly  elected  a 
member,  but  removes  to  another  state  after  being  elected 
and  before  taking  the  degree,  he  may  not  legally  demand 
the  return  of  his  fees,  but  may  be  initiated  in  the  Lodge 
in  which  he  was  elected,  notwithstanding  his  change  of 
residence.  The  Lodge  electing  him  to  membership  will 
retain  jurisdiction  to  initiate  until  the  fee  is  forfeited,  as 
provided  by  local  law.     (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  40,  219,  239,  253.) 

269.  DEPOSIT  OF   CARD,  RESIDENCE.— 

Sec.  3. — A  candidate  for  membership  by  deposit 
of  card  shaill  have  a  withdrawal  card,  a  dismissal 
certificate,  a  certificate  of  resignation,  a  Grand 
Lodge  card,  or  a  visiting  card  or  official  certificate 
in  date,  and  shall  be  a  resident  of  the  jurisdiction 
of  Illinois,  as  provided  in  Section  2  of  this  Article. 
(J.  1901,  p.  303.) 

This  section  conflicts  with  Section  274  infra.  Section  274  it 
the   law,   and  must  be  followed. —  (Editor.) 

270.  The  laws  of  the  Order  provide  the  way  in  which 
persons  may  regain  membership  upon  a  withdrawal  card, 
and  the  Lodge  granting  a  final  card  has  no  power  to  de- 
part from  that  way.  When  the  person  holding  the  card 
wishes  to  reunite  with  the  Lodge  issuing  it,  he  must  apply 
in  the  regular  way  just  as  if  he  were  a  stranger.  (S.  J. 
3182,  3234,  3266.)  In  no  case  may  the  Lodge  adopt  a 
By-Law  for  the  admission  of  members  by  deposit  of 
cards  in  any  different  way  than  that  provided  for  by 
general  law,  which  is  by  application,  reference  to  a  Com- 
mittee, and  ballot,  as  in  case  of  an  original  application 
for  membership.  And  this  law  applies  to  a  case  where 
a  member  draws  his  final  card  for  the  direct  purpose  of 
establishing  a  new  Lodge,  and  after  having  reorganized 
a  new  Lodge  refuses  to  deposit  the  card  in  his  own  Lodge 
within  a  specified  time.  (S.  J.  6201,  6261;  S.  J.  7395,  7399, 
7475,  7476.)  Where  a  Grand  Jurisdiction  enacts  a  law 
providing  that   when  a  member   draws   his   card  for   the 


53  R.  L.  Ill,  §3. 

express  purpose  of  instituting  a  new  Lodge,  he  can  return 
his  card  and  hold  his  former  standing  in  said  Lodge  with- 
out the  least  loss,  unless  he  remains  in  the  new  Lodge 
an  unreasonable  time,  such  local  legislation  is  void  as 
being  contrary  to  the  general  law  of  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
XXn,  Report  No.  9,  p.  681,  709.) 

27L  An  official  certificate  may  be  used  to  accompany 
a  petition  for  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  in  another 
(Grand)  Jurisdiction.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  29,  365,  394.) 

272.  A  withdrawal  card  is  the  property  of  the  brother 
by  whom  it  is  deposited,  and,  unless  accepted  by  the 
Lodge,  should  be  returned  to  him.  The  Lodge  may  not, 
in  case  of  its  non-acceptance,  mutilate  the  card  by  en- 
dorsing "Rejected"  thereon.     (S.  J.  1449,  1479,  1963.) 

273.  It  is  competent  for  a  Lodge  to  receive  on  de- 
posit a  withdrawal  card,  although  the  Lodge  has  been 
suspended  or  expelled,  or  has  become  defunct  since  the 
card  was  issued,  provided  at  the  time  it  was  granted  the 
Lodge  labored  under  no  disability.  But  the  rule  is  other- 
wise as  to  visiting  cards,  which  speak  in  the  present,  of 
the  connection  of  the  bearer,  whose  right  undoubtedly 
expires  with  his  Lodge.     (S.  J.  1470,  1484.) 

274.  A  Grand  Lodge  has  no  right  to  require  a  resi- 
dence for  any  definite  period  before  a  withdrawal  card 
from  a  sister  jurisdiction  can  be  deposited.  (S.  J.  4070, 
4187,  4201,  See  §  269  supra. 

275.  In  the  absence  of  local  law,  any  brother  can 
deposit  a  withdrawal  card,  and  a  Lodge  receive  him 
without  asking  consent  of  the  Lodge  granting  the  same. 
(S.  J.  11301,  11312.) 

276.  The  card  of  an  Encampment  or  Subordinate 
Lodge  will  not  authorize  admission  into  a  Rebekah  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  1150,  1291,  1316.) 

277.  A  Lodge  is  not  obliged  to  admit  to  membership 
an  applicant  by  card;  his  application  is  judged  of  by  the 
Lodge,  and  decided  upon  by  ballot.     (S.  J.  678.) 

278.  An  unexpired  withdrawal  card  is  prima  facie 
evidence  that  the  brother  holding  the  same  is  a  member 
in  good  standing,  but  the  Lodge  may  go  behind  it  and 
ascertain  the  facts.     (J.  VII,  p.  938.) 


R.  L.  Ill,  §3.  54 

279.  The  Noble  Grand  should  examine  an  applicant 
for  membership  by  card  as  to  his  being  in  possession  of 
the  Rebekah  A.  P.  W.  It  is  essential  that  he  should  be 
in  possession  of  it,  and  of  the  degrees  he  claims  to  have 
received.  (S.  J.  2147,  2177;  S.  G.  L.  By-Laws,  Art.  XIV; 
S.  J.  3479.) 

280.  A  member  applying  for  admission  by  card  must 
answer  all  questions  asked  him  by  the  Investigating  Com- 
mittee of  the  Lodge  as  to  his  state  of  health  or  bodily 
defects.     (J.  VII,  p.  117;  see  §286  injra.) 

281.  When  a  person  who  has  taken  a  withdrawal 
card  wishes  to  rejoin  the  Lodge  from  which  he  drew  it, 
he  must  apply  in  the  regular  way  just  as  if  he  were  a 
stranger,  and  the  Lodge  cannot  vary  from  the  usual  course 
of  proceedings.     (S.  J.  3182,  3234,  3266.) 

282.  An  election  to  membership  on  a  withdrawal 
card  sent  in  without  petition  is  invalid,  and  entirely  null. 
No  Committee  should  be  appointed  on  such  verbal  ap- 
plication. But  if  a  member  is  submitted  and  consummates 
membership  by  signing  the  Constitution,  his  membership 
is  valid  despite  the  informality.  (J.  1856,  p.  24;  J.  Ill, 
p.  79.) 

283.  The  question  whether  a  card  is  in  force  or  is 
to  be  treated  as  having  expired  is  determined  by  the 
time  when  it  is  presented.  The  Lodge  may  act  upon  it 
after  it  has  expired:  Provided,  it  was  presented  to  the 
Lodge  before  the  date  of  such  expiration.  The  Grand 
Master  has  no  authority  to  revive  an  expired  card.  (S.  J. 
10864,  10865,  10902.) 

284.  A  member  of  an  extinct  Lodge  who  did  not 
regularly  withdraw  therefrom  prior  to  its  extinction,  can 
be  admitted  to  membership,  only  upon  the  presentation  of 
a  card  from  the  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  which 
the  defunct  Lodge  formerly  existed.  (S.  J.  3621,  3689, 
3707.) 

285.  A  member  of  a  defunct  Lodge  can  obtain  a 
card  or  dismissal  certificate  from  the  Grand  Secretary 
or  Grand  Lodge  in  the  jurisdiction  where  the  defunct 
Lodge  was  located,  which  card  or  certificate  will  enable 
him  to  join  any  Lodge  by  card  or  as  an  Ancient  Odd  Fel- 
low.    (S.  J.  11898,  12217,  12282.) 


55  R.  L.  Ill,  §3. 

286.  An  application  for  membership,  by  deposit  of 
card,  carries  through  the  face  of  the  card  the  qualification 
of  the  applicant.  But  the  Investigating  Committee  pos- 
sesses the  undoubted  right  to  satisfy  itself  that  the  ap- 
plicant is  in  possession  of  the  qualifications  indicated  by 
the  card,  and  the  Lodge  should  not  take  action  upon  the 
application  for  membership  by  deposit  of  card  until  the 
Investigating  Committee  has  reported  thereon.  (S.  J. 
11898,  12209,  12279;  see  %280  supra  ) 

287.  A  law  requiring  Lodges  to  notify  the  Grand 
Secretary  of  rejections  and  expulsions  includes  also  re- 
jections of  applications  upon  visiting  and  withdrawal 
cards.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  21,  365,  394.) 

ANCIENT  ODD  FELLOW: 

288.  If  the  applicant  for  membership  by  card  does 
not  have  the  Rebekah  A.  P.  W.,  or  should  his  card  be  an 
expired  one,  he  may  be  admitted  to  membership  as  an 
Ancient  Odd  Fellow.     (S.  J.   3479.) 

289.  An  Ancient  Odd  Fellow  is  one  who  has  been 
regularly  initiated  into  the  Order  and  has  retired  there- 
from in  good  standing,  either  by  taking  his  permanent 
withdrawal  card,  or  by  resignation.  If  done  by  resig- 
nation he  at  once  becomes  an  Ancient  Odd  Fellow,  and  if 
by  taking  a  permanent  card,  he  becomes  so  at  the  ex- 
piration of  one  year  from  the  date  of  his  card.  (S.  J. 
2859,  2925,  2963;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.) 

290.  The  holder  of  a  dismissal  certificate  is  not  an 
Ancient  Odd  Fellow,  but,  for  the  purpose  of  regaining 
active  membership,  the  S.  G.  L.  recognizes  him  as  such. 
(S.  J.  6614,  6690,  7174,  7380,  7474,  11893,  12253,  12299;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.) 

291.  When  the  withdrawal  card  has  been  lost  or 
destroyed,  the  Lodge  which  issued  the  same  may  grant 
a  certificate  under  seal,  setting  forth  the  fact  of  such 
original  issue;  and  the  certificate  so  granted  may  be  used 
in  lieu  of  a  card  as  evidence  of  previous  standing.  The 
brother  may,  also,  on  satisfactory  proof  that  a  witli- 
drawal  card  was  issued  to  him,  and  that  the  same  was 
lost  or  destroyed,  be  re-admitted  to  membership  as  an 
Ancient  Odd  Fellow,  and  will  be  entitled  to  the  rank  he 


R.  L.  III.  §3.  56 

may  prove   himself  to   have   attained.      (S.  J.   1921,   1956, 
1841,  1898,  1952.) 

292.  An  Ancient  Odd  Fellow  who  can  satisfactorily 
establish  his  claim  to  be  so  considered,  and  can  prove 
himself  in  the  work,  is  not  required  to  be  re-initiated  into 
the  Order.  His  rank  or  standing  in  the  Lodge  to  which 
he  may  be  admitted  will  be  determined  by  the  Lodge, 
upon  the  report  of  the  Committee  appointed  to  make  the 
necessary  examination.     (S.  J.  3621,  3689,  3707.) 

293.  The  law  of  1880  in  regard  to  cards  of  members 
of  defunct  Lodges  being  self-contradictory,  was  changed 
in  1881,  giving  to  such  cards  the  same  force  and  eflfect 
of  a  card  from  a  Subordinate  Lodge.  This  was  repealed 
by  implication  in  1884,  and  so  stood  until  1890,  when  it 
was  enacted  that  such  cards  did  not  carry  with  them  the 
right  to  the  A.  T.  P.  W.,  and  gave  only  the  right  of  an 
Ancient  Odd  Fellow.  (S.  J.  14685,  14948,  15019.)  But  in 
1899,  by  Report  No.  45,  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  319,  it  was  enacted 
that  Grand  Lodges,  through  their  proper  ofificers,  might 
issue  withdrawal  cards  or  dismissal  certificates  to  the 
members  of  defunct  Lodges,  according  to  the  standing 
of  such  members  when  the  Lodge  surrendered  its  charter, 
and  that  such  cards  or  certificates  should  have  the  same 
privilege  as  a  withdrawal  card  or  certificate  that  has 
been  issued  by  an  existing  Lodge  in  good  standing.  (S. 
J.  XIX,  p.  319,  353,  514,  827,  873.) 

294.  The  holder  of  a  dismissal  certificate  regularly 
issued  by  a  Lodge  may  deposit  the  same  in  any  other 
Lodge  under  such  rules  and  upon  such  condition  as  the 
jurisdiction  in  which  it  is  ofifered  for  deposit  may  pre- 
scribe; but  he  shall  not  be  required  to  be  in  possession 
of  the  A.  P.  W.     (Sov.  By-Laws,  Art.  XIV.) 

295.  A  certificate  from  the  Grand  Secretary  of  a 
State  Grand  Lodge  who  becomes  the  custodian  of  the 
charter,  books  and  papers  of  extinct  Lodges,  setting  forth 
the  actual  standing  of  a  member  of  a  Lodge  at  the  time 
of  its  demise,  is  competent  evidence  for  Subordinates  in 
their  action  upon  the  application  of  a  member  of  a  de- 
funct Lodge  for  re-admission  into  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
2739,  2774.) 

296.  Certificates  issued  to  members  of  an  extinct 
Lodge  by  the  proper  officers   of  the   State   Grand   Body 


57  R.  L.  Ill,  §3. 

in  conformity  with  the  (former)  existing  laws  of  the 
S.  G.  L.,  do  not  require  the  counter-signature  of  the  Grand 
Secretary  of  the  S.  G.  L.  to  make  them  available,  but  all 
such  certificates  are  to  be  recognized  by  every  Lodge  to 
which  they  may  be  presented,  whether  in  or  out  of  the 
jurisdiction  issuing  them,  as  having  the  same  force  and 
effect,  and  entitling  the  holders  thereof  to  all  the  privi- 
leges of  an  expired  withdrawal  card  issued  by  an  existing 
Subordinate  in  good  standing.  (S.  J.  3621,  3689,  3707, 
3876,  3953,  3987,  9756,  9809;  see  §293  supra.) 

297.  A  Grand  Lodge  certificate  issued  to  a  member 
of  a  defunct  Lodge  has  the  efifect  of  a  withdrawal  card 
out  of  date.     (S.  J.  9756,  9809.) 

The  last  three  sections  have  been  modified  by  the  legislation  of 
§  293  sufra  but  a  card  issued  under  their  authority  prior  to  the 
change  in  the  law,  and  presented  for  admission  after  the  change  in 
the  law,  would  doubtless  be  valid. —  (Editor.) 

298.  The  holder  of  an  expired  withdrawal  card,  dis- 
missal certificate,  certificate  of  resignation,  or  Grand 
Lodge  card,  if  a  saloon-keeper  or  bar-tender,  is  not  eli- 
gible to  membership,  though  he  has  been  continuously 
such  since  before  the  S.  G.  L.  amended  Article  XVI  of  its 
Constitution  in  1895.     (J.  1901,  p.  11,  319.) 

300.  The  term  "good  standing,"  as  known  to  this 
Order,  signifies:  First,  contributing  members  who  are 
under  no  charges  regularly  preferred  against  them,  ac- 
cording to  the  provisions  of  the  Constitutions  of  their 
respective  Lodges;  and  secondly,  freedom  from  any  dis- 
ability by  reason  of  non-payment  of  dues  of  every  kind. 
(S.  J.  497,  1299,  1340,  1775,  1806,  2560,  2628,  2664.) 

301.  To  constitute  a  member  in  good  standing  it  is 
requisite  as  an  essential  that  he  shall  be  a  contributing 
member,  which  presupposes  that  he  shall  be  in  active 
membership,  a  condition  not  contemplated  in  quasi  mem- 
bership.    (S.  J.  2560,  2628,  2684.) 

302.  There  is  no  such  thing  provided  by  our  laws  as 
vouching  for  a  member's  good  standing.  (S.  J.  XX,  p. 
529,  979,  1002.) 

303.  If  a  brother  is  in'  arrears  for  dues,  and  liable  to 
suspension,  he  is,  not  in  good  standing.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  716, 
988,  1004.) 


R.  L.  Ill,  §4.  58 

304.  DEPOSIT  OF  VISITING  CARD.— Sec. 

4. — Any  nicniber  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  holding 
a  visiting  card  or  official  certificate  in  force,  shall 
have  the  privilege  of  applying  for  membership  in 
this  Lodge  without  having  obtained  a  withdrawal 
card  from  the  Lodge  in  which  membership  is  held, 
and  may  be  elected  to  membership  in  this  Lodge. 
But  such  candidate  shall  not  be  entitled  to  full 
membership,  or  have  any  of  the  privileges  of  a 
member  of  this  Lodge,  until  a  withdrawal  card  from 
the  Lodge  in  which  previous  membership  was  held 
is  deposited  with  this  Lodge,  nor  until  the  payment 
of  the  admission  fees  required  by  the  By-Laws  of 
this  Lodge.     (J.  1901,  p.  304.) 

(Sec.  5,  J.  1895,  p.  200,  was  repealed;  J.  1901,  p.  304,  and 
all  the  remaining  sections  were  renumbered.  J.  1901,  p.  304. — 
Editor.) 

305.  This  is  a  general  law,  and  the  Grand  Lodge 
cannot  limit  the  same  to  those  making  a  change  of  resi- 
dence.    (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  41,  365,  394.) 

306.  The  deposit  of  a  visiting  card  in  another  Lodge 
does  not  sever  membership  in  the  Lodge  of  which  the 
brother  is  a  member,  until  the  withdrawal  card  has  been 
granted.  In  such  cases  where  the  withdrawal  card  ap- 
plied for  has  been  withheld  by  the  Lodge,  the  same  can- 
not be  granted  after  the  brother  has  become  sick  or  in- 
sane so  as  to  relieve  the  Lodge  from  payment  of  benefits. 
(S.  J.  15413,  15494.) 

307.  When  a  member  has  been  elected  to  member- 
ship in  another  Lodge  and  applies  to  his  old  Lodge  for  a 
withdrawal  card,  which  the  Lodge  refuses  to  grant,  the 
Grand  Master  should  direct  such  Lodge  to  grant  a  with- 
drawal card,  provided  the  visiting  card  was  regularly  and 
legally  issued  and  no  charges  have  been  filed  after  its 
issuance  and  before  the  application  for  a  withdrawal  card. 
(S.  J.  15750,  16030,  16054.) 

308.  A  member  who  is  elected  to  membership  in 
another  Lodge  upon  deposit  of  a  visiting  card,  and  who 
fails    to    deposit    a    withdrawal    card    from    the    original 


59  R.  L.  Ill,  §5. 

Lodge  in  the  new  Lodge,  does  not  perfect  his   member- 
ship in  the  new  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  27,  365,  394.) 

309.  The  Lodge  to  which  a  member  applies  for 
membership  upon  his  election  must  notify  the  Lodge 
which  issued  the  visiting  card  and  thereupon  the  member 
must  apply  for  a  withdrawal  card  or  dismissal  certificate, 
but  the  Secretary  may  apply  for  such  card  at  the  instance 
and  by  the  authority  of  the  member.  (S.  J.  12353,  12632, 
12701.) 

310.  The  visiting  card  need  not  be  returned  where 
the  holder  thereof  has  been  elected  to  membership  thereon. 
(S.  J.  14248,  14487,  14570.) 

311.  When  one  is  elected  to  membership  upon  de- 
posit of  an  ofificial  receipt  or  a  visiting  card  he  does  not 
become  a  member  of  the  new  Lodge  until  he  has  ob- 
tained a  withdrawal  card  from  his  former  Lodge  and  de- 
posited it  in  his  new  Lodge.  Until  this  is  done,  he  must 
pay  dues  to  his  former  Lodge.  Such  brother  does  not 
become  a  member  of  the  new  Lodge  until  he  signs  its 
Constitution  and  By-Laws,  and  he  cannot  sign  the  Con- 
stitution and  By-Laws  of  the  Lodge  electing  him  until  the 
withdrawal  card  from  his  former  Lodge  has  been  granted 
and  deposited.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  528,  979,  1002.) 

312.  Where  one  seeking  to  change  his  members'hip 
by  depositing  his  visiting  card,  and  being  elected,  sickens 
and  dies  after  his  Lodge  votes  a  withdrawal  card,  but 
before  it  reaches  the  Lodge  electing  him,  he  not  having 
signed  the  Constitution  and  By-Laws,  nor  paid  the  ad- 
mission fee,  is  not  a  member  of  either  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
14680,  14948,  15019.) 

313.  An  ofificial  certificate  can  be  deposited  upon  an 
application  for  membership  just  as  a  visiting  card.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  15,  285.  314;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  18,  365,  394.) 

314.  APPLICATION  FORM  OF.  —  Sec.  5. 
— An  application  for  membership  shall  be  in  the  fol- 
lowing form,  to-wit : 

To  the  Officers  and  Members  of 

Rebekah  Lodge,  No ,  working  iiindcr  the  juris- 


R.  L.  Ill,  §5.  60 

diction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Independent  Order  of 
Odd  Fellows  of  the  State  of  Illinois. 

The  undersigned  (a) , 

who  has  been  a  resident  of  the  jurisdiction  of  Illi- 
nois for  six  months  last  past,  who  is  a  white  person 
and  a  believer  in  a  Supreme,  Intelligent  Creator  and 
Ruler  of  the  Universe,  respectfully  requests  ad- 
mission into  this  Lodge  by  (b) 

I  certify  that  (c) , 

and  in  consideration  of  such  admission,  I  promise 
and  agree  that,  if  elected,  I  will  conform  to  the  Con- 
stitution and  By-Laws  of  your  Lodge,  and  those  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  and  that 
I  will  seek  my  remedy  for  all  rights  on  account  of 
said  membership  or  connection  therewith  in  the  tri- 
bunals of  the  Order  only,  without  resorting  for  their 
enforcement  in  any  event,  or  for  any  purpose,  to  the 
civil  courts. 

My  age  is years ;  my  occupation 

is ,  and  my  residence 

is ,  Illinois,  and  I  refer  to 

and i 

Signed 

Witness and 

Dated 

Note. —  (a)  Insert  here  name  of  applicant,  (b) 
State  here  whether  by  initiation,  by  withdrawal 
card,  by  visiting  card,  by  dismissal  certificate  or 
reinstatement,  (c)  Here  the  applicant  shall  cer- 
tify, as  the  case  may  be,  that,  "I  am  an  Odd  Fellow 

in  good  standing  in Lodge," 

or,  "I  am  the  wife  of  an  Odd  Fellow  who  is  in  good 

standing  in Lodge  ;"  or,  "I 

received  the  Degree  of  Rebekah  at ;" 

or,  "I  am  an  unmarried  woman;"  and  (if  not  by  re- 


61  R.  L.  Ill,  §5. 

instatement,)  "I  have  not  been  a  member  of  a  Re- 
bekah  Lodge,  nor  have  I  been  rejected  in  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  within  six  months." 

Said  application  for  membership  shall  be  signed 
by  the  applicant  and  witnessed  by  two  members  of 
this  Lodge.  The  application,  accompanied  by  the 
fee  therefor,  should  be  presented  to  the  Lodge  at  a 
regular  meeting  thereof,  by  a  member,  and  shall  be 
entered  in  substance  on  the  records  and  referred  to 
a  special  committee  of  three  members  for  investiga- 
tion, two  of  whom  shall  be  sisters  and  one  a  brother, 
if  the  applicant  be  a  lady ;  or  two  brothers  and  one 
sister  if  the  applicant  be  an  Odd  Fellow ;  which  com- 
mittee shall  report  in  writing  at  the  next  regular 
meeting  unless  further  time  be  granted.  (J.  1895, 
p.  200;  J.  1896,  p.  306,  318.) 

315.  Applications  for  membership  cannot  be  re- 
ceived at  special  sessions  of  the  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  510,  827,  873.) 

316.  Applications  for  membership  may  not  be  re- 
ceived at  a  special  meeting,  neither  can  an  applicant^ 
for  membership  be  elected  at  a  special  meeting.  (J.  1901, 
p.  14,  270,  294.) 

317.  An  Investigating  Committee  on  a  proposition 
for  membership,  must  be  a  special  Committee,  never  a 
standing  one.  The  members  must  make  such  investigation 
as  is  necessary  to  enable  them  to  report  properly  on  the 
qualifications  of  the  candidate.  The  Noble  Grand  must 
not  be  a  member  of  it.  The  Committee  cannot  withhold 
its  report  longer  than  until  the  next  regular  meeting, 
following  the  meeting  at  which  the  petition  is  read,  unless 
further  time  is  granted  by  the  Lodge.  They  cannot  re- 
port until  the  next  regular  meeting  after  appointment, 
unless  under  special  dispensation  for  the  purpose  of 
initiating  on  the  same  evening.  A  majority  of  the  Com- 
mittee is  necessary  to  make  a  report,  and  if  a  part  of  the 
original  Committee  is  displaced  for  failing  to  report,  and 
new  members  are  appointed,  they  cannot  report  until  one 
week  after  the  appointment  of  a  majority,  except  under 


R.  L.  Ill,  §6.  62 

dispensation.     (J.  1853,  p.  30;  J.  1856,  p.  37;  J.  1857,  p.  164; 
J.  Ill,  p.  420,  443;  W-401.) 

318.  A  report  of  a  Committee  on  character  must  be 
signed  by  a  majority  of  the  Committee.  Two  so-called 
reports,  one  in  favor  of  the  applicant  and  one  against, 
each  signed  by  a  single  member  of  the  Committee,  are 
not  proper  reports  to  be  received  and  acted  upon  by  the 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  12797,  13050,  13076.) 

319.  A  candidate's  application  for  membership  must 
be  received  and  acted  upon  at  regular  meetings  only,  but 
his  initiation  may  take  place  at  a  special  meeting  called 
in  accordance  with  the  By-Laws.  (S.  J.  12797,  13050, 
13076.) 

320.  After  a  Committee  has  reported  on  a  petition 
for  membership  the  petition  may  be  deferred  until  the 
next  regular  session,  or  from  time  to  time,  until  any  doubt 
as  to  the  fitness  of  the  candidate  may  be  determined. 
(S.  J.  15745,  16030,  16054.) 

321.  A  proposition  becomes  the  property  of  the 
Lodge  as  soon  as  it  is  in  the  hands  of  the  Secretary.  No 
vote  to  receive  it  is  necessary.  The  name  of  a  man  and 
bis  character  may  not  be  part  of  a  discussion  before  he 
is  regularly  proposed.  (J.  IH,  p.  24,  42;  J.  V,  p.  13, 
90,  91.) 

322.  CERTIFICATE.  — Section  6.  —  An  Odd 
Fellow  petitioning  for  membership  in  this  Rebekah 
Lodge  shall  present  either  an  Official  Certificate  or 
Visiting  Card  in  date  from  his  Subordinate  Lodge, 
or  a  certificate  in  the  following  form : 

Hall  of Lodge,  No , 

I.  O.  O.  F.,  at ,  Illinoi'^, 

: 19 

To  whom  it  may  concern : 

This  certifies  that  Bro . 

is  a  member  of  this  Lodge  in  good  standing. 

(Sea'l)  ,  Secretary. 

(J.  1907,  p.  386,  424.) 

323.  BALLOTING.— Sec.  7.— When  the  re- 
port of  the  Investigating  Committee  has  been  sub- 


63  R.  L.  Ill,  §7. 

mitted  to  the  Lodge,  the  candidate  shall  be  balloted 
for  as  required  by  law,  after  which  the  ballot  box 
shall  be  passed  by  the  Warden  to  the  Vice  Grand, 
who  shall  examine  the  ballot  and  inform  the  Noble 
Grand  whether  the  same  is  favorable  or  unfavor- 
able ;  the  ^Varden  shall  then  pass  the  box  to  the 
Noble  Grand,  who  shall  inspect  the  ballot  and  an- 
nounce the  result,  merely  stating  that  the  candidate 
is  elected  or  rejected.  If  not  more  than  two  black 
balls  appear,  the  candidate  shall  be  declared  elected ; 
but  if  three  or  more  appear,  the  candidate  shall  be 
declared  rejected.  (Sec.  8  of  J.  1895,  p.  201 ;  Re- 
bekah  Code,  Sec.  24.) 

324.  Where  the  law  does  not  require  that  the  ballot 
box  shall  be  passed  to  the  Noble  Grand  and  Vice  Grand 
in  balloting  for  candidates,  it  is  permissible  to  do  so,  if 
the  Lodge  desires,  but  it  cannot  be  passed  to  any  other 
officer  except  to  the  Noble  Grand  and  Vice  Grand  in  their 
official  positions.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  538,  752,  820.) 

325.  The  former  Rebekah  law  predicated  membership 
upon  a  majority  vote.  The  present  law  predicates  it  upon 
the  number  of  black  balls  cast.  If  three  appear,  the  can- 
didate is  rejected,  though  fifty  white  balls  should  be  cast. 
Any  law  that  now  predicates  membership  upon  a  majority 
vote  is  null  and  void.     (S.  J.   14675,  14948,   15019,   15042.) 

326.  Not    less    than    three    black    balls    shall    be    re 
quired  to  reject  an  applicant  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J. 
15170,   15560,   15616;   Rebekah   Code,   Sec.   24;    S.   J.   XIX, 
p.  845.) 

327.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  require  more,  but  not  less 
than  three  black  balls  to  reject  an  applicant  for  member- 
ship or  reinstatement  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  510,  827,  873.) 

328.  A  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  vote 
upon  an  application  for  membership  unless  clothed  in 
proper  regalia.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365,  394.) 

329.  The  ballot,  as  announced  by  the  Vice  Grand, 
and  declared  by  the  Noble  Grand,  cannot  be  challenged. 
(J.  1901,  p.  14,  270,  294.) 


R.  L.  Ill,  §7.  64 

330.  The  Vice  Grand  should  inspect  the  ballot  box 
before  ballot.  The  ballot  box  for  voting  purposes  should 
be  placed  on  the  altar  or  suitable  pedestal,  near  the  center 
of  the  room.     (J.  1901,  p.  14,  270,  294.) 

331.  Every  member  of  a  Lodge  has  a  right  to  do- 
posit  his  ballot  upon  each  individual  application  for  mem- 
bership, and  a  collective  ballot  would  be  an  infringement 
on  this  right.  (S.  J.  2700,  2764,  2810;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  27, 
284,  314.) 

332.  A  Lodge  must  ballot  on  an  application,  whether 
the  report  of  the  Committee  be  favorable  or  unfavorable. 
(S.  J.  3836,  3847;  see  §335  infra.) 

333.  It  is  a  violation  of  law  to  endeavor  to  ascertain 
how  a  member  voted  upon  an  application  for  membership. 
(S.  J.  15757,  16071,  16116.) 

334.  No  person  can  be  either  elected  or  rejected 
unless  by  ballot  in  due  form.     (J.  I,  p.  147;  J.  1856,  p.  20.) 

335.  When  the  "Investigating  Committee"  makes  a 
report  on  the  application  of  a  citizen  or  brother  who 
desires  to  join  the  Lodge  by  initiation,  or  by  deposit  of 
card,  respectively,  the  report  should  be  received;  and  then 
action  must  be  taken  upon  the  application  for  member- 
ship by  ball  ballot  vote,  under  the  law.  When  the  said 
Committee's  report  is  received,  it  stands  as  any  other 
report  made  by  a  special  Committee  to  the  Lodge,  and 
may,  if  desired,  be  discussed  and  be  recommitted  with 
instructions,  if  such  is  the  will  of  the  Lodge;  or  the  ap- 
plication may  even  be  referred  to  the  Lodge  itself  as  a 
"Committee  of  the  Whole,"  that  the  discussion  thereon 
may  be  without  restraint;  the  applicant  must  stand  ball 
ballot  vote  to  obtain  membership,  and  the  Lodge  possesses 
the  inherent  power  to  investigate  the  standing  of  the  ap- 
plicant through  a  Special  Committee,  or  as  a  Committee 
of  the  Whole,  but  in  either  instance  the  report  of  the 
Committee  must  be  made  to  the  Lodge  in  regular  meet- 
ing.    (S.  J.  11900,  12217,  12281.) 

336.  It  is  a  member's  right  to  vote  a  ball  ballot.  A 
member  may  not,  at  pleasure,  conceal  or  expose  his 
ballot;  he  must  keep  it  secret.  It  is  an  offense  to  endeavor 
to  discover  how  a  member  has  voted  so  as  to  bring 
odium  upon  him;  to  permit  a  showing  of  votes  would 
reach    this    result    indirectly,    and    is    forbidden.      Hence, 


65 R.  L.  Ill,  §7. 

local  law  may  not  provide  that  a  member  casting  a  single 
black  ball  in  a  ballot  shall  state  his  objections  in  private 
or  in  writing  to  the  Noble  Grand.  (S.  J.  3836,  3847,  4992, 
5194,  5245;  S.  J.  14678,  14948,  15019.) 

338.  When,  upon  a  ballot,  the  number  of  black  balls 
required  to  reject  are  cast,  the  applicant  shall  be  de- 
clared to  be  rejected,  and  it  is  not  lawful  for  the  applica- 
tion to  be  referred  for  further  investigation  and  a  new 
ballot  at  some  future  meeting.     (S.  J.  5519,  5547.) 

339.  A  Lodge  cannot  compel  the  Noble  Grand  to 
report  the  number  of  black  balls  cast  in  case  the  ap- 
plicant is  rejected.     (S.  J.  6202,  6262.) 

340.  Grand  Lodges  are  authorized  to  adopt  a  law 
permitting  their  Subordinates  to  immediately  retake  bal- 
lots for  candidates  for  membership  where  black  balls 
appear,  in  order  to  verify  the  fact  that  black  balls  may 
not  have  been  cast  by  error.  A  Grand  Lodge  has  the 
right  to  provide  that  where  three  black  balls  appear  in 
balloting  for  a  candidate,  one  or  more  additional  ballots 
shall  be  taken.  (S.  J.  13147,  13193,  15176,  15534,  15584; 
S.  J.  3836,  3847;  but  see  §351  infra.) 

A  ballot  may  be  retaken  under  the  following  cir- 
cumstances: 

(L)  When  a  ballot  is  had,  if  the  Noble  Grand  has 
any  reason  to  suspect  error  or  mistake,  he  may,  before 
declaring  the  result,  state  that  he  fears  there  is  error, 
and  order  the  vote  taken  again;  but  when  the  result  is 
once  declared,  the  ballot  may  not  be  again  held  unless 
error  or  fraud  is  charged  on  the  ballot. 

(2.)  In  case  error  or  fraud  is  charged  on  the  ballot 
on  a  proposition  for  membership,  which  may  have  effected 
the  result,  the  ballot  may  be  declared  void,  and  a  new 
ballot  ordered  by  vote  of  the  Lodge,  if  no  member  en- 
titled to  vote  has  left  the  room  since  the  first  ballot  was 
taken;  otherwise,  the  ballot  being  declared  void,  the  propo- 
sition shall  be  recommitted  to  an  Investigating  Com- 
mittee and  await  their  report  at  a  subsequent  meeting. 
(T-1732;  J.  1856,  p.  20,  126;  S.  J.  7854,  7883.) 

(3.)  When  all  who  have  cast  black  balls  against  an 
applicant  for  membership  voluntarily  make  a  motion  for 
reconsideration    of   the    ballot,    the    same    may    be    recon- 


R.  L.  Ill,  §7. 


66 


sidered,  and  in  such  case  the  votes  cast  on  the  recon- 
sideration shall  be  taken  by  ball  ballots,  and  if  the  balls 
cast  shall  be  in  favor  of  it,  the  reconsideration  shall  be 
had;  whereupon  the  application  shall  lie  over  until  the 
succeeding  meeting,  when  another  ballot  shall  be  had 
with  ball  ballot,  and  if  the  same  be  unanimously  in  favor 
of  the  applicant,  he  shall  thereby  be  elected,  but  if  one 
or  more  black  balls  appear  in  either  ballot,  the  applicant 
shall  be  rejected,  and  in  no  case  shall  a  reconsideration 
be  had,  except  upon  the  voluntary  motion  of  all  those 
who  cast  the  black  balls,  and  never  more  than  one  re- 
consideration in  the  same  case  shall  be  allowed.  Pro- 
vided, always  that  such  reconsideration  shall  be  had 
within  four  meeting  nights  next  succeeding  the  rejection. 
(S.  J.  4365,  4402,  4070,  4187,  4201,  2773,  2792,  2827,  9806, 
9820,  11104,  11368,  11396.) 

341.  If  a  person  has  been  elected  through  fraud  or 
error,  which  may  have  affected  the  result,  a  majority  of 
the  Lodge  can,  previous  to  the  applicant's  initiation,  order 
a  new  ballot.  After  initiation,  if  the  applicant  is  innocent 
of  any  misrepresentation,  and  the  illegality  has  been  con- 
fined to  the  Lodge,  he  shall  be  protected  in  his  member- 
ship as  though  legally  elected.  If  he  has  been  guilty  of 
fraud,  he  may  be  tried  therefor  and  expelled.  (S.  J.  8108, 
8178,  2146,  2177;  see  §356  infra.) 

342.  In  case  illegal  ballots  be  cast  upon  ballot  for 
membership  in  a  Lodge  (such  illegality  being  that  mem- 
bers voted  upon  such  application  who  were  disqualified 
by  the  By-Laws)  such  ballot  may,  if  unfavorable,  be  de- 
clared void  by  the  presiding  officer,  and  a  new  ballot  be 
immediately  had.     (S.  J.  5193,  5244;  see  §354  infra). 

343.  A  ballot  by  which  a  candidate  was  rejected  may 
not  be  declared  null  and  void  on  account  of  errors  com- 
mitted by  several  members  in  voting.  The  proper  course 
in  such  case,  if  the  error  or  errors  be  discovered  before 
the  result  is  declared,  is  to  spread  a  new  ballot.  (S.  J. 
5852,  5936,  8078,  8174.) 

344.  When  a  balloting  has  been  declared  null  and 
void,  the  proposition,  together  with  the  report  thereon 
of  the  Committee  of  Investigation,  and  action  of  the 
Lodge  receiving  such  report  and  ordering  a  balloting, 
would  still  be  before   the   Lodge,  and  nothing  would  re- 


67  R.  L.  Ill,  §7. 

main   to   be   done   except   to   order   a   new   ballot.      (S.   J. 
2808,  2830.) 

345.  In  all  cases  where  a  candidate  for  membership 
in  a  Lodge  has  been  elected,  but  subsequent  to  his  elec- 
tion and  prior  to  his  initiation,  the  Lodge  shall  become 
satisfied  that  he  is  unworthy,  it  shall  be  competent  for  the 
Lodge  to  annul  such  election  and  declare  it  void  by  a 
majority  of  two-thirds  of  the  members  present.  (S.  J. 
2310,  2346.) 

346.  Under  this  decision  the  Lodge  may  annul  the 
election  of  one  who  is  found  to  be  affected  with  disease 
so  as  to  be  a  burden  to  the  Lodge;  or  of  one  who,  after 
election,  is  disabled  by  accident  so  as  to  become  in- 
capacitated for  business,  or  unsuitable  by  loss  of  sight, 
hearing,  speech,  limb  or  member.  The  initiation  can  be 
postponed  from  time  to  time,  at  discretion,  and  finally 
annulled.  (J.  Ill,  p.  486,  515;  J.  VI,  p.  497,  551,  574,  623; 
S.  J.  2147,  2177.) 

347.  The  Lodge,  and  not  the  Noble  Grand,  has  the 
power  of  determining  the  time  of  an  initiation,  and  can 
postpone  it  at  pleasure;  and  should  anything  occur  after 
the  ballot  and  before  the  initiation,  which  can  operate  as 
a  reason  why  the  applicant  shall  not  be  admitted,  the 
initiation  need  not  take  place.  But  this  power  of  a  Lodge 
is  not  to  be  used  arbitrarily,  with  a  view  of  altogether 
preventing  the  initiation,  except  when  the  election  is  an- 
nulled. Candidates  may  always  be  initiated  upon  the 
night  of  their  election.  (J.  1857,  p.  151;  W-421,  422;  J.  I, 
p.  291;  J.  Ill,  p.  484,  515,  517.) 

348.  It  is  not  competent  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  legal- 
ize the  initiations  made  by  a  Lodge  during  the  period  of 
its  expulsion  or  suspension;  but  an  illegal  admission  by 
card,  where  the  applicant  is  himself  partner  with  the 
Lodge  in  the  wrong,  may  be  set  aside;  he  gains  no  right 
to  membership  by  his  fraud,  and  is  not  released  from  his 
obligation  of  secrecy  by  the  annulment  of  the  admission. 
(S.  J.  1391,  1494,  1513,  10713,  10951,  11005.) 

349.  A  person  is  not  a  member  by  virtue  of  his 
election  merely;  initiation  or  introduction  by  the  Com- 
mittee and  signing  of  the  Constitution,  and  a  pledge  to 
support  the  Constitution  and  the  By-Laws  are  necessary 
to   consummate     membership.      If    the     candidate   cannot 


R.  L.  Ill,  §7. 68 

sign  his  name,  he  must  make  his  mark  and  have  it  wit- 
nessed. A  person  admitted,  but  failing  to  sign  the  Con- 
stitution, yet  acting  for  some  considerable  time  as  a 
member,  must  be  considered  a  member;  and  if  dropped, 
he  cannot  claim  his  payment  back,  and  to  regain  mem- 
bership, he  must  be  regularly  reinstated.  (J.  I,  p.  254; 
J.  1856,  p.  24,  126;  J.  V,  p.  138,  202,  230,  14,  91.) 

350.  A  candidate  for  membership  in  the  Order  w'ho 
has  been  elected  in  a  Lodge  where  he  resides,  cannot  be 
initiated  in  a  Lodge  where  he  may  have  a  temporary 
residence  upon  the  request  of  the  Lodge  electing  him, 
but  all  initiations  must  take  p'lace  in  the  Lodge  in  which 
the  applicant  is  elected.     (S.  J.  3739,  3821,  3842.) 

It  is  the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  supervise  all 
ball  ballots  and  declare  the  result.  Grand  Jurisdictions 
surbordinate  to  the  S.  G.  L.  may  authorize  its  Subordin- 
ates to  enact  By-Laws  that  the  Vice  Grand  may  assist 
in  the  examination  of  the  ballot  and  make  known  the 
result  of  his  examination  so  far  as  to  state  whether  the 
ballot  is  favorable  or  unfavorable.  The  whole  matter  is 
left  to  local  legislation,  except  that  the  Noble  Grand 
alone  has  the  prerogative  of  deciding  the  result  of  a 
ballot.  (T-1779;  S.  J.  10094,  10173.)  So,  too,  the  Grand 
Lodge  may  provide  that  the  Noble  Grand  must  pass  the 
ballot  box  to  his  Right  and  Left  Supporters  for  inspec- 
tion before  he  announces  the  result.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  16, 
365,  394.) 

351.  A  rule  providing  that  if  only  one  black  ball 
appears,  the  balloting  shall  be  deferred  until  the  next 
regular  meeting,  when  the  ballot  shall  be  again  taken, 
is  contrary  to  law.  (S.  J.  9855,  10148,  10188;  but  see 
§340  supra.) 

352.  No  form  or  ceremony  for  introduction  of  a 
member  elected  on  deposit  of  card  has  been  adopted  in 
this  State,  but  the  member  is  to  be  introduced  by  a  Com- 
mittee.    The  following  form  is  suggested: 

After  examination  in  the  passwords  and  work  by  the 
Noble  Grand,  or  by  a  Committee  under  his  order,  the 
Committee  conducts  him  to  the  Lodge  like  a  visitor,  and 
its  leading  member  says: 

"Noble  Grand,  I  have  the  pleasure  of  introducing  to 
you  and  to  the  Lodge,  as  one  of  our  number  from  this 


69  R.  L.  Ill,  §7. 

time,    Brother _ ,    whom    the 

brethren  have  elected  a  member  of  this  Lodge  upon  de- 
posit of  card." 

The  Noble  Grand  calls  up,  rises  and  says: 

"Brother ,   in   the   name 

of  this   Lodge,   I   welcome   you   as   henceforth   a   member 

of Lodge,    No 

The  confidence  of  the  brethren  have  given  you  admission, 
and  we  trust  that  your  membership  with  us  will  prove 
mutually   pleasant    and    profitable.      The    Committee    will 

conduct   Brother „ .-. to   the 

Secretary  to  sign  the  Constitution,  after  which  he  will  be 
seated  as  one  of  us."     (T-1745.) 

353.  When  one  applies  for  membership  on  deposit 
of  card,  and  is  elected  and  signs  the  Constitution,  his 
card  should  remain  in  the  Lodge,  but  if  the  elected  fails 
to  appear  and  sign  the  Constitution,  he  may  demand  the 
return  of  his  card,  because  until  he  signs  the  Constitu- 
tion, he  is  not  a  member  of  the  Lodge,  except  in  cases 
when  the  Lodge  neglects  its  own  law  about  signature 
and  receives  the  brother  as  a  member,  and  he  attends 
and  acts  as  a  member,  thus  creating  a  virtual  member- 
ship.    (S.  J.  4860,  4894,  7464,  7465,  7506,  7509,  7510.) 

354.  The  Noble  Grand  has  no  power  or  control  over 
a  ballot  on  a  petition  for  membership  at  a  meeting  sub- 
sequent to  the  one  at  which  the  ballot  was  had.  (J.  1897, 
p.  204.) 

355.  Where  the  result  of  a  ballot  on  a  petition  for 
membership  has  been  announced,  a  second  ballot  cannot 
be  taken  except  for  fraud  or  mistake.     (J.  1898,  p.  122.) 

356.  Where  a  candidate  for  membership  has  been 
illegally  elected  and  afterwards  initiated,  the  illegality  of 
the  election  will  not  invalidate  the  initiation,  but  where 
there  is  doubt  as  to  the  legality  of  such  election,  the 
Lodge  should  defer  action  until  such  time  as  the  law  can 
be  fully  and  rightfully  determined.  (J.  1895,  p.  87,  see 
§341,    siqyra). 

357.  In  balloting  it  is  permissible  for  the  box  to  be 
passed  to  the  chairs  of  the  Noble  Grand  and  Vice  Grand, 
but  to  no  other  officers.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  533,  752,  820.) 

358.  A  clause  in  a  Lodge  Constitution  requiring  one 
who  cast  a  black  ball  to  "communicate  in  writing  to  the 


R.  L.  Ill,  §8. 


70 


Noble  Grand  his  reasons  for  so  doing,"  is  illegal.     (S.  J. 
14678,  14948,  15019.) 

359.  PROPOSITION  FOR  MEMBERSHIP, 
RECEIPT  OF. — Sec.  8. — A  proposition  for  mem- 
bership may  be  received  at  a  regular  meeting  only ; 
and  by  unanimous  consent  of  the  Lodge  the  same 
may  be  received,  reported  upon,  and  the  applicant 
balloted  for  and  admitted  to  membership  on  one  and 
the  same  evening.    (Sec.  9  of  J.  1895,  p.  201.) 

360.  Under  the  general  law,  and  in  the  absence  of 
local  legislation  governing  such  cases,  a  dispensation  from 
the  Grand  Master  is  necessary  to  permit  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
to  elect  an  applicant  at  the  same  meeting  when  the  ap- 
plication is  received.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  33,  284,  314.) 

361.  PROPOSITION  FOR  MEMBERSHIP, 
WITHDRAWAL  OF.  —  Sec.  9.  —  A  proposition 
for  membership  may  be  withdrawn  without  the  con- 
sent of  the  Lodge,  at  any  time  before  the  committee 
shall  have  reported  thereon,  but  not  subsequently. 
The  admission  fee  shall  be  returned  if  the  applica- 
tion is  refused  or  withdrawn ;  but  if  the  candidate 
shall  be  elected  and  fail  to  appear  for  admission 
within  three  months  (except  for  cause  adjudged 
sufficient)  the  election  shall  be  void,  and  the  deposit 
forfeited  to  the  Lodge.     (Sec.  10  of  J.  1895,  p.  202.) 

362.  When  an  application  for  membership  is  re- 
ceived by  a  Lodge  and  referred  to  a  Committee,  it  can  be 
withdrawn  before  the  report  of  the  Committee  thereon 
is  read  to  the  Lodge,  but  not  afterwards.  (S.  J.  11484, 
11728,  11786,  12237,  12287.) 

363.  The  name  of  a  candidate  for  initiation  and 
membership  can  be  withdrawn  before  the  report  of  the 
Committee  is  read,  but  not  subsequently.  It  is  too  late 
if  the  report  has  been  recommitted.  (S.  J.  1150,  1291,  1316, 
5920,  5950.) 

364.  Where  a  Committee,  upon  an  application  for 
membership  returns  the  application  to  the  Lodge  without 
making  any  report,  having  held  it  a  week,  the   Constitu- 


71  R.  L.  Ill,  §10. 

tion  containing  tlie  usual  provision  allowing  an  applica- 
tion to  be  withdrawn  at  any  time  before  the  report  of  the 
Committee,  and  the  reasons  for  not  reporting  appear  in 
oral  statements,  upon  which  a  question  is  raised,  the 
proposer  can  withdraw  the  application  without  having 
those  reasons  appear  upon  the  records.  (S.  J.  14688, 
14948,  15019.) 

365.  If  a  proposition  has  been  withdrawn,  it  cannot 
be  reinstated  to  occupy  the  same  place  in  the  proceed- 
ings; it  can  get  in  again  only  by  being  again  presented 
and  taking  the  regular  course.     (J.  VI,  p.  33,  114,  116.) 

366.  A  Lodge  may  receive  an  application  from,  but 
cannot  initiate  a  candidate  under  age.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  25, 
284,  314.) 

367.  REJECTED  APPLICATION,  WHEN 
RENEWED.— Sec.  10.— No  petition  shall  be  re- 
ceived from  any  rejected  applicant  unless  the  period 
of  six  months  has  intervened  since  the  date  when 
such  applicant  was  last  rejected.  (Rebekah  Code, 
Sec.  24;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  845;  J.  1907,  p.  386,  424,  425.) 

368.  If  a  candidate  is  blackballed  by  a  Lodge  that 
has  no  legal  right  to  receive  and  act  upon  his  application, 
he,  being  ignorant  of  the  fact,  need  not  wait  six  months 
before  applying  for  membership  in  the  proper  Lodge, 
and  the  proper  Lodge  has  a  right  to  receive  and  act 
upon  his  application,  the  former  action  being  illegal,  null 
and  void.     (S.  J.   14250,   14487,   14570.) 

369.  The  Rebekah  Code  provides  that  no  petition 
shall  be  received  from  any  rejected  applicant  unless  a 
period  of  six  months  has  intervened  between  such  ap- 
plications. (Rebekah  Code,  Section  24;  S.  J.  XIX,  p. 
845;  Id.  White's  Digest  1895,  p.  345.)  A  brother  whose 
application  for  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  has 
been  rejected,  cannot  apply  for  membership  in  another 
Rebekah  Lodge  until  six  months'  time  has  elapsed  since 
the  first  application.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  510,  827,  873.)  By 
general  law  it  is  held  that  one  applying  for  admission 
by  the  deposit  of  a  visiting  card  is  an  applicant  or  can- 
didate, and  is,  in  the  absence  of  a  local  law  making  a 
distinction    between    applicants    for    initiation    and    those 


R.  L.  Ill,  §11. 72 

applying  for  membership  by  card,  subject  to  the  rules 
regulating  the  application  of  candidates  for  membership. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  21,  365,  394.) 

370.  DEGREE,  WHERE  CONFERRED.— 
Sec.  11. — A  person  elected  to  membership  in  a 
Rebekah  Lodge  must  receive  the  degree  in  the 
Lodge  in  which  such  person  was  elected.  The  right 
and  duty  of  conferring  this  degree  cannot  be  trans- 
ferred to  another  and  different  Lodge.  (J.  1901,  p. 
304;  Sec.  9,  Rebekah  Code.) 

371.  The  Rebekah  Degree  is  now  recognized  as  a 
regular  Degree  to  be  conferred  in  a  regularly  chartered 
Rebekah  Lodge,  and  is  now  in  the  same  position  as  the 
other  Degrees  of  the  Order,  which  cannot  be  revoked 
by  a  mere  majority  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  14886,  15006, 
15071.) 

372.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  is  an  entirely  independent 
organization  from  that  of  the  Subordinate  Lodge.  It  is 
auxiliary  to  the  Subordinate  Lodge  only  by  reason  of 
being  engaged  in  kindred  work,  and  being  a  division  of 
the  same  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  but  in  its  government 
and  chartered  existence  it  is  independent  of,  and  not 
auxiliary  to,  the  Subordinate  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  30, 
365,  394.) 

373.  A  person  elected  to  membership  in  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  must  have  the  Degree  conferred  upon  him  in  the 
Lodge  in  which  he  was  elected.  The  right  and  duty  of 
conferring  this  Degree,  which  is  equivalent  to  initiation, 
cannot  be  transferred  to  another  and  different  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  12791,  13050,  13076.)  One  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot 
authorize  another  to  confer  the  Degree  upon  a  person 
elected  to  membership  in  the  first  named  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  509,  827,  873.)  It  is  a  violation  of  law  to  initiate 
in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  persons  known  to  be  residents  of  a 
jurisdiction  other  than  the  one  where  they  are  initiated. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  538,  988,  1004.) 

374.  BROTHERS'  QUALIFICATIONS— Sec. 
12. — In  the  case  of  brothers,  membership  in  this 
Lodge  is  dependent  on  continuous  good  standing  in 
a  Subordinate  Lodge;  except  that  if  a  brother  shall 


I 


73  R.  L.  IV,  §1. 

take  a  withdrawal  card  from  the  Subordinate  Lodge 
of  which  he  may  be  a  member,  his  membership  in 
his  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  not  be  afifected  thereby  for 
one  year  from  the  date  of  said  withdrawal  card,  if 
during  that  time  he  shall  keep  his  dues  paid  up  in 
the  Rebekah  Lodge.  And  if  he  shall,  during  said 
year,  become  a  member  of  another  Lodge,  by  de- 
posit of  said  card,  his  membership  in  the  Rebekah 
Lodge  shall  not  be  affected  by  the  taking  of  the 
card.  (Section  13  of  1895,  p.  202  as  amended  J. 
1896,  p.  306;  See  Sec.  10,  Rebekah  Code.) 

375.  DEGREE  ON  WHOM  CONFERRED.— 

Sec.  13. — This  Lodge  shall  confer  the  degTce  of 
Rebekah  on  regularly  elected,  qualified  applicants, 
and  none  others,  as  provided  in  this  Constitution. 
(Sec.  14  of  J.  1895,  p.  202;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  9.) 

ARTICLE  IV.— OFFICERS. 

376.  ELECTIVE  AND  APPOINTIVE  ENU- 
MERATED.—Section  1— The  officers  of  this  Lodge 
shall  be  a  Noble  Grand,  a  Vice  Grand,  a  Secretary, 
a  Financial  Secretary  (if  necessary)  and  a  Treasurer, 
who  shall  be  elected  by  the  Lodge;  a  Warden, 
Conductor,  an  Inside  Guardian,  an  Outside  Guar- 
dian, Right  and  Left  Supporters  of  the  Noble 
Grand,  and  a  Chaplain,  who  shall  be  appointed  by 
the  Noble  Grand ;  and  Right  and  Left  Supporters 
of  the  Vice  Grand,  who  shall  be  appointed  by  the 
Vice  Grand.  (J.  1895,  p.  202;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec. 
11.) 

377.  Where  a  Subordinate  or  Rebekah  Lodge  has 
two  Secretaries,  the  official  titles  are  Recording  and  Fi- 
nancial Secretary.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  949,  963.) 

378.  The  officers  of  the  Lodge  have  -xright  to  their 
respective  positions  upon  the  Staff  in  the  regular  Lodge 
work,   and   cannot   be   deprived   of   that   right   except   by 


R.  L.  IV,  §1.  74 

their  consent.     (S.  J.   14675,   14948,   15019;   S.  J.   XXI,  p. 
536,  752,  820.) 

379.  Where  it  is  necessary  to  count  the  nights  when 
absent  from  sickness,  in  order  to  entitle  to  honors  as 
Past  Noble  Grand,  the  minutes  of  the  Lodge  should  show- 
that  such  absence  has  been  excused  by  the  Lodge.  The 
certificate  of  the  Secretary,  merely,  is  not  sufficient.  And 
where  sickness  that  has  been  excused  does  not  appear 
of  record  on  the  minutes,  the  Lodge  should  take  appro- 
priate action  authorizing  the  certificate  of  the  Secretary. 
(S.  J.  XXI,  p.  33,  286,  314.) 

380.  A  sister  is  entitled  to  the  honors  and  rank  of 
Past  Noble  Grand,  if  the  nights  actually  served  as  Noble 
Grand,  added  to  the  nights  when  excused  for  sickness 
and  the  nights  when  the  government  prohibited  meetings 
because  of  the  prevalence  of  an  epidemic,  would  together 
make  a  majority  of  the  meetings  nights  of  the  term. 
(S.  J.  XXI,  p.  33,  286,  314.) 

38L  The  Noble  Grand  becomes  a  Past  Noble  Grand 
upon  the  expiration  of  her  term  of  office,  regardless  of 
whether  she  is  re-elected  to  the  same  office  or  not.  (S. 
J.  XXI,  p.  31,  284,  314.) 

382.  The  Noble  Grand  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  is  not 
entitled  to  a  Past  Noble  Grand's  certificate,  even  though 
she  served  a  majority  of  the  nights  in  the  term,  if  her 
Lodge  becomes  defunct  before  the  end  of  the  term.  (S. 
J.  XIX,  p.  29,  365,  394.) 

383.  At  the  institution  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  and 
during  the  first  term  of  such  Lodge,  when  no  Past  Noble 
Grand  is  present,  any  member  in  good  standing  may  be 
selected  to  fill  the  Past  Noble  Grand's  chair.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  867,  884.) 

384.  An  Officer  in  a  Staff  must  be  one  qualified  to 
fill  the  same  office  in  regular  Lodge  work.  (J.  1901,  p. 
14,  270,  294.) 

385.  A  Staff  may  not  give  an  Exhibition  Drill  in 
Staff  robes  in  public,  nor  have  photographs  taken  in  such 
robes.     (J.  1901,  p.  14,  270,  294;  S.  J.  14676,  14948,  15019.) 

386.  The  ratik  of  Past  Noble  Grand  is  attained  after 
service  of  a  regular  term  in  the  office  of  Noble  Grand. 
(S.  J.  2132,  2174.) 


75  R.  L.  IV,  §1. 

387.  The  Junior  Past  Noble  Grand  is  not  an  Officer, 
but  can  be  elected  or  appointed  to  office  in  the  Lodge 
during  the  time  she  occupies  the  Past  Noble  Grand's 
chair,  or  she  may  be  elected  Delegate  to  the  Assembly. 
(S.  J.  IZn,  7472,  12569,  12648,  12649.) 

388.  When  a  Noble  Grand  is  re-elected  and  rein- 
stalled in  that  office  the  Junior  Past  Noble  Grand  of  the 
last  term  is  the  proper  one  to  officiate  as  sitting  Past 
Noble  Grand.     (J.  VI,  p.  915,  1023.) 

389.  The  acting  Noble  Grand  has  a  right  to  call 
special  meetings  of  the  Lodge,  and  no  one  else  has  that 
right.  The  By-Laws  of  a  Lodge  may  require  the  Noble 
Grand  to  convene  special  meetings  under  certain  circum- 
stances, but  her  original  powers  are  not  thereby  infringed. 
But  if  the  Noble  Grand  be  absent  from  home  or  in- 
capacitated from  acting,  and  there  should  be  an  emer- 
gency, the  Vice  Grand  may  then  act  in  her  place;  further 
than  this  there  is  no  legal  provision.  (J.  1856,  p.  181; 
J.  Ill,  p.  162,  193,  200;  see  §130  to  133  supra.) 

390.  A  Lodge  cannot  dictate  words  to  be  used  by 
the  Noble  Grand  upon  any  occasion.     (J.  IV,  p.  467.) 

391.  There  is  no  law  preventing  the  Noble  Grand 
from  delivering  the  Past  Noble  Grand's  charge  to  ini- 
tiates, although  the  charge  should  be  given  by  a  Past 
Noble  Grand  if  present.     (S.  J.  1895,  1952.) 

392.  A  Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand  of  any  Lodge, 
Subordinate  or  Rebekah,  is  not  obliged  to  surrender  his 
chair  to  a  team  in  conferring  degrees,  although  these 
Officers  should  allow  it  to  be  done,  unless  they  are  cap- 
able of  doing  it  in  a  creditable  manner  themselves.  (S.  J. 
10737,  10951,  11005.) 

393.  No  person  can  officiate  as  Noble  Grand  or  Vice 
Grand  unless  he  has  taken  the  obligation  of  the  office, 
except  in  certain  cases  provided  for  in  the  Ritual.  A 
Supporter,  unless  he  is  a  Past  Grand  or  Past  Vice  Grand, 
cannot  administer  the  O.  B.  N.  (J.  I,  p.  119,  146,  147, 
293.) 

394.  Fines  may  be  imposed  by  the  Noble  Grand  upon 
Officers  or  members  for  absence  or  failure  to  do  duty, 
but  the  opportunity  must  first  be  given  to  the  Officer  or 
member  to  offer  excuse  in  bar  or  mitigation  of  the  alleged 


R.  L.  IV,  §1.  16 

ofifense,  upon  which  excuse  the  Lodge  must  pass  and 
decide  sufficient  or  insufficient.  If  the  Lodge  decides  the 
excuse  sufficient,  no  fine  shall  be  imposed,  otherwise  a 
fine  shall  be  imposed  and  shall  be  subject  to  appeal. 
The  word  of  a  brother  must  be  taken  as  true  in  offering 
an  excuse,  but  he  may  be  tried  and  punished  for  a  false 
statement.  (J.  IX,  p.  881,  1017.)  A  motion  to  remit  the 
fine  when  no  excuse  is  offered,  is  not  in  order.  (J.  V, 
p.  25,  79.) 

395.  A  fine  may  not  be  assessed  against  an  Officer 
whose  non-attendance  is  shown  to  be  caused  by  absence 
from  home  or  by  sickness,  nor  against  one  for  being  in 
arrears  for  dues.     (T-1972.) 

396.  Nor  may  an  Officer  nor  Committeeman  be  fined 
for  neglect  of  duty,  unless  the  fine  be  authorized  by  law. 
(J.  V,  p.  675,  751.) 

397.  Nor  may  one  be  fined  for  refusal  to  accept 
office  or  a  place  on  a  Committee,  nor  may  a  fine  be  im- 
posed for  the  absence  of  any  one  but  an  Officer  from  a 
Lodge  room.     (J.  VI,  p.  781,  576,  580;  J.  Ill,  p.  189.) 

398.  A  majority  vote  grants  an  excuse,  unless  the 
By-Laws  provide  otherwise.     (J.  Ill,  p.  161,  193,  200.) 

399.  It  is  the  duty  of  Officers  to  be  present  at  the 
hour  of  meeting;  absence  at  that  time,  without  excuse, 
is  neglect  of  duty,  and  renders  them  liable  to  fine  if  there 
is  a  By-Law  to  that  effect;  coming  in  after  roll-call  does 
not  free  them  from  this  liability.  (J.  V,  p.  306,  385,  392; 
J.  1901,  p.  12,  319.) 

400.  It  is  the  duty  of  Officers  to  be  present  at  the 
opening  of  the  Lodge,  but  should  they  come  late,  it  should 
be  shown  in  the  records  when  they  enter  and  assume 
their  respective  chairs,  and  the  roll-call  book  should  show 
them  late  or  tardy.     (J.  1901,  p.  12,  319.) 

401.  A  Lodge  may,  in  its  discretion,  excuse  an  Offi- 
cer or  member  for  absence  (as  from  Lodge  meeting  or  a 
funeral)  when  such  absence  is  shown  to  arise  from  his 
holding  an  official  position  in  his  church  or  Sunday 
School,  and  his  attendance  there.  But  the  Lodge  may 
displace  him  from  the  office  if  his  absence  bring  him 
under  the  rule  of  Article  VI,  Sec.  5  of  the  Rebekah 
Constitution,  not  as  a  penalty  on  him,  but  for  the  benefit 


n  R.  L.  IV,  §1. 

of  the  Lodge,  which  is   entitled  to   Officers   that  will  at- 
tend.    (J.  V,  p.  663;  J.  VI,  p.  242,  328,  344,  370,  371.) 

402.  When  a  brother  who  resides  out  of  town  or  at 
a  distance  from  a  Lodge  room  accepts  office,  he  may  not 
claim  exemption  from  fine  for  absence  when  at  home, 
upon  the  plea  of  "absence  from  town."  (J.  Ill,  p.  159, 
193,  200.) 

403.  An  officer  of  any  Lodge  is  liable  to  a  fine  or 
other  punishment  for  absence  or  neglect  of  duty,  even 
after  the  expiration  of  the  term  for  which  he  was  elected 
or  appointed,  until  his  successor  has  been  appointed  and 
installed,  provided  the  By-Laws  inflict  a  penalty  for  ab- 
sence or  neglect  of  duty.     (J.  Ill,  p.  160,  193,  200.) 

404.  Official  niisconduct  may  be  punished  by  re- 
moval from  office  or  by  fine,  but  not  by  other  penalties. 
But  official  misconduct  associated  with  any  other  miscon- 
duct may  be  otherwise  punished.     (J.  Ill,  p.  268.) 

405.  The  suspension  of  an  officer  for  cause  as  a 
penalty,  whether  for  a  long  or  a  short  period,  vacates  his 
office.     (S.  J.  7771,  7840.) 

406.  The  holding  of  a  visiting  card  is  no  excuse  or 
justification  for  the  absence  of  an  officer  of  a  Lodge. 
A  brother  in  possession  of  a  traveling  or  visiting  card  is 
not  thereby  deprived  of  holding  office,  or  of  his  rights 
as  a  member  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  2758,  2782.) 

407.  To  be  a  legal  excuse  for  absence  the  illness 
must  be  personal  to  the  member,  not  among  his  family. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  504,  827,  873.) 

408.  The  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge  having  defined  the 
term  "sickness"  as  a  cause  of  excuse  for  official  absence, 
it  is  not  within  the  province  of  a  State  Grand  Lodge  to 
set  aside  such  interpretation,  or  to  place  a  different  inter- 
pretation upon  said  word  when  used  for  such  purpose. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  504,  827,  873.) 

409.  It  is  the  duty  of  a  Lodge  to  furnish  its  officers 
with  jewels  and  regalia  of  their  rank  and  station.  (S.  J. 
1290.) 

410.  When  a  Subordinate  Body  fails  to  hold  meet- 
ings for  a  majority  of  the  nights  during  the  term,  the 
officers  thereof  are  not  entitled  to  honors.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  44,  365,  394.) 


R.  L.  IV,  §1.  78 

411.  The  officers  of  Lodges,  where  meetings  are  for- 
bidden by  government  quarantined  for  the  major  part  of 
a  term,  are  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  office  if  they  are 
present  at  the  meeting.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  505,  827,  873.) 

412.  A  Junior  Past  Noble  Grand  is  not  an  officer  of 
a  Lodge,  and  cannot  be  fined  as  an  "absent  officer."  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  24,  365,  394.) 

413.  A  brother  cannot  be  installed  into  and  hold,  at 
the  same  time,  more  than  one  of  the  offices  of  the  Lodge 
provided  for  in  the  ritual  and  general  law.  However, 
in  jurisdictions  where  the  local  law  does  not  inhibit, 
Lodges  may  provide  by  By-Law  that  the  duties  of  the 
offices  of  Recording  and  Financial  Secretary  shall  be 
combined  into  one  office  of  Secretary.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
394,  426.) 

414.  The  officers  of  a  Lodge  have  duties  and  powers 
as  prescribed  by  the  charge-books  of  the  Order  and  the 
laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge  under  which  they  exist.  The 
Noble  Grand  and  Vice  Grand  are  entitled  to  the  Rebekah 
A.  P.  W.  and  to  superintend  the  examination  of  visitors. 
(Digest  1847,  p.  49;  B-1326.) 

415.  The  executive  officers  of  a  Lodge  are  the  Noble 
Grand  and  Secretary.  (S.  J.  11892,  12217,  12281;  See 
§  440  infra.) 

416.  A  member  cannot  hold  the  two  offices  of  Re- 
cording Secretary  and  Treasurer  at  the  same  time  in  any 
Lodge  in  the  Order,  Grand  or  Subordinate,  as  the  case 
may  be.     (S.  J.  10255,  10487,  10511.) 

417.  A  Lodge  is  responsible  for  the  mistakes  of  its 
officers,  and  a  member  should  not  be  allowed  to  suffer 
therefor.  But  if  the  correction  of  an  error  of  its  officers 
will  work  a  wrong,  a  Lodge  may  not  take  advantage  of 
its  own  mistakes.  And  if  the  act  of  the  officers  be  in  its 
nature  illegal  (as  the  issue  of  a  card  without  vote  of  the 
Lodge)  the  Lodge  cannot  legalize  it;  it  remains  void. 
(W-202;  J.  Ill,  p.  161,  193,  200.) 

418.  Officers  may  be  removed  from  office  only  in 
accordance  with  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  (J.  I, 
p.    146.) 

419.  All  members  of  the  Order  are  in  duty  bound, 
while  in  their  Lodge,  to  be  governed  by  the  well-known 
usages   of  the   Order,   and   in  case   of  their   refusal,   it   is 


79  R.  L.  IV,  §1. 

proper  to  prefer  charges  against  them  for  conduct  un- 
becoming an  Odd  Fellow.  No  member  can  claim  in- 
dulgence on  account  of  his  ofificial  position  in  the  Order. 
(S.  J.  4241,  4414,  4430.) 

420.  An  ofificer  of  a  Lodge  cannot  fill  his  station  by 
proxy,  even  with  the  consent  of  the  Lodge,  nor  accept 
an  office  with  any  conditions  or  reservations,  nor  escape 
fine  for  absence  by  providing  a  substitute.  (J.  L  P-  174, 
283;  J.  1855,  p.  85.) 

42L  It  is  not  perinissible  for  Lodges  to  have  various 
cards  of  the  work  printed  on  slips  to  give  the  officers  op- 
portunity to  learn  them.     (J.  VII,  p.  70,  87.) 

422.  The  performance  of  the  duties  of  the  Chaplain 
may  not  be  required  by  the  infliction  of  penalties.  (S.  J. 
1Z12,   7472.) 

423.  Service  for  a  regular  term  as  Chaplain  shall 
make  such  officer  eligible  for  election  to  the  office  of 
Vice  Grand.     (S.  J.  14169.) 

424.  The  law  of  1894,  making  the  Chaplain  a  qualify- 
ing office  for  Vice  Grand,  is  not  retroactive,  and  applies 
only  to  those  who  shall  serve  in  that  office  after  its 
passage.     (S.  J.   14687,  14948,  15019.) 

425.  A  Lodge  may  not  emplo}'  a  physician  to  attend 
members  in  good  standing  and  pay  a  certain  sum  per 
member  per  year  out  of  the  general  fund,  unless  author- 
ized by  local  law.  (S.  J.  15003,  15071,  15087.)  But 
in  case  of  an  epidemic  of  a  contagious  disease,  a  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  may  alone,  or  in  conjunction  with  an 
Encampment,  hire  physicians  to  attend  such  Odd  Fellows 
and  their  families  as  may  be  taken  sick  during  the  preva- 
lence of  such  epidemic  disease.     (S.  J.  15455,  15529,  15583.) 

426.  A  Lodge  may  not  appoint  a  Degree  Master  or 
physician  to  the  Lodge  as  an  officer,  or  an  Outside  Guar- 
dian, who  is  not  a  member  of  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  7820, 
7867.) 

427.  A  Room  Warden  or  Steward  may  be  appointed 
by  the  Lodge,  or  under  its  order,  but  he  is  not  an  officer 
and  is  not  finable  as  such.     (J.  1856,  p.  182;  W-225.) 

428.  Where  the  Lodge  has  chosen  a  brother  to  act 
as  Steward  it  may  not  require  the  Noble  Grand  to  ap- 
point him  as  Outside  Guardian.     (W-229;  T-1070.) 


R.  L.  IV,  §2.  80 

429.  All  vacancies  are  filled  in  the  manner  of  the 
original  selection,  and  at  regular  meetings  of  the  Lodge. 
(J.  1856,  p.  196.) 

430.  The  holding  of  office  does  not  deprive  members 
of  any  of  their  rights  and  privileges  in  the  Lodge,  such 
as  the  right  of  debate,  of  vote,  etc.  A  Grand  Master 
may  take  part  in  the  proceedings  of  his  Lodge,  and  vote 
for  oflficers,  membership  and  all  motions.  A  member 
acting  as  Grand  Officer  at  an  installation  may  vote  at 
any  election  held  by  the  installing  officer  if  duly  qualified. 
(S.  J.  1503,  1513,  4843,  4870.) 

43L  The  Outside  Guardian  and  Warden  may  be  paid 
for  their  services  at  the  discretion  of  the  Lodge.  A  Lodge 
may  pay  a  Secretary  a  salary  besides,  or  including,  the 
amount  of  his  dues;  but  the  allowance  of  salary  may  not 
be  retrospective,  and  must  be  fixed  before  he  is  elected. 
(J.  1856,  p.  118;  J.  IV,  p.  378,  434,  465;   See  §  470  infra.) 

432.  An  officer  who  is  paid  is  entitled  to  the  propor- 
tion of  his  salary  for  the  length  of  time  he  serves.  Upon 
resigning,  his  successor  is  not  entitled  to  compensation 
for  the  entire  term,  but  only  for  such  time  as  he  acts. 
(S.  J.  2268,  2328.) 

433.  NOBLE    GRAND,    DUTIES.— Sec.    2.— 

It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  pre- 
side in  the  Lodge,  and  enforce  a  due  observance 
of  the  Constitution  and  Laws ;  to  see  that  all  the 
ofificers  of  the  Lodge  and  members  of  committees 
perform  their  respective  duties ;  to  appoint  all  offi- 
cers except  the  Supporters  of  the  Vice  Grand  ;  to  ap- 
point a  majority  of  all  committees  not  otherwise 
provided  for;  to  give  the  casting  vote  only  on  all 
matters  or  question  before  the  Lodge,  except  that 
the  Noble  Grand  shall  be  entitled  to  vote  in  all 
ballots.  The  Noble  Grand  shall  inspect  and  an- 
nounce the  result  of  all  votes  of  the  Lodge,  have 
charge  of  the  charter,  which  must  always  be  in  the 
Lodge  room  while  the  Lodge  is  in  session ;  draw 
upon   the  Treasurer  for  all   sums   that  have  been 


81  R.  L.  IV,  §2. 

voted  by  the  Lodge,  and  none  other ;  shall  convene 
special  sessions  as  directed  in  Article  I,  Section  3, 
of  this  Constitution,  and  perform  such  other  duties 
as  appertain  to  that  office.  The  Noble  Grand  shall 
not  make  or  second  any  motion,  nor  take  part  in 
any  debate  while  in  the  chair.     (J.  1895,  p.  202.) 

434.  The  Noble  Grand  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  can,  in 
case  of  the  absence  of  any  of  the  regular  officers,  and 
before  assuming  the  chair  or  clothing  herself  in  appro- 
priate regalia,  request  members  present  to  take  the  places 
of  such  absent  officers  to  aid  in  the  introduction  of  a 
little  floor  work  at  the  entrance  of  the  officers  in  a  body- 
to  assume  their  stations  before  the  Lodge  is  called  to 
order  for  the  opening  ceremony:  Provided,  that  if  the 
officer  arrives  before  the  procession  enters,  she  cannot 
be  excluded  from  the  same,  or  if  the  procession  has  en- 
tered and  reached  the  chairs,  an  officer  then  arriving  can- 
not be  displaced  in  her  proper  chair  by  such  invited  sub- 
stitute.    (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  31,  365,  394.) 

435.  No  one  but  the  acting  Noble  Grand  may  draw- 
on  the  Treasurer  for  funds.  She  has  no  power  or  control 
of  the  funds  of  the  Lodge,  but  what  is  expressly  given  in 
the  Constitution  and  By-Laws.  She  cannot  hold  the 
office  of  Treasurer.  (J.  1856,  p.  177;  J.  Ill,  p.  158,  193, 
200,  420,  443.) 

436.  The  Noble  Grand  who  is  to  be  excused  for  ab- 
sence, should  make  her  excuses  to  the  Lodge,  and  the 
Vice  Grand  should  state  any  question  arising  thereon. 
(J.  IV,  p.  53.) 

437.  A  Noble  Grand  has  no  right  to  refuse  to  put 
any  legitimate  question  before  the  Lodge.  Her  differing 
from  the  Lodge  has  nothing  to  do  with  the  matter.  (S. 
J.  4992,  5194,  5245.) 

438.  The  limitation  in  the  Constitution  that  the 
Noble  Grand  shall  give  the  casting  vote  only,  refers  to 
questions  of  policy  before  the  Lodge.  She  may  join  in 
debate  by  leaving  the  chair.  (J.  I,  p.  251,  252;  J.  IH,  p 
421,  443.) 

439.  The  Noble  Grand  is  the  proper  custodian  of 
the  Ritual,  and  all  other  books  containing  or  relating  to 


R.  L.  IV.  §2. 82 

the  secret  work  of  the  Order,  and  may  entrust  them  to 
his  subordinate  officers  for  the  purpose  of  qualifying 
while  in  the  Lodge  room;  but  it  is  unlawful  to  take  these 
books  from  the  room.  The  laws  prohibit  the  writing  of 
any  part  of  the  work.  The  Noble  Grand  holds  the  books, 
etc.,  in  her  possession  until  her  successor  is  installed. 
(Ritual,  p.  56;  S.  J.  4467,  4626,  4671.) 

440.  The  Xoble  Grand  is  an  executive  officer,  and 
the  Vice  Grand  may  be,  as  in  case  of  the  absence  of  the 
Xoble  Grand.    (S.  J.  11099,  11368,  11396;  See  §  415  supra.) 

441.  A  Xoble  Grand  has  a  right  to  invite  a  Past 
Noble  Grand  to  occupy  the  chair  during  initiation.  (S.  J. 
3540.) 

442.  The  term  "temporary  absence"  must  be  taken 
to  mean  the  absence  of  the  Noble  Grand  from  his  chair 
merely,  while  he  still  remains  in  the  Lodge  room  or 
ante-room,  which,  under  the  law,  constitutes  a  component 
part  of  the  Lodge  room.  Whenever  the  X'^oble  Grand 
leaves  the  Lodge,  then  the  duty  of  occupying  his  chair 
devolves  upon  the  Vice  Grand.  (S.  J.  8092,  8177;  See 
§  450,  462  infra). 

443.  The  Xoble  Grand  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  is  au- 
thorized to  instruct  the  Vice  Grand  to  communicate  the 
annual  password  to  a  member  visiting  from  another  juris- 
diction after  being  examined  in  the  ante-room  and  found 
in  possession  of  the  proper  credentials  and  entitled  to  ad- 
mission.    fS.  J.  XXin,  p.  245,  300,  309.) 

444.  The  action  of  a  Lodge  is  not  illegal  when  a 
Past  Xoble  Grand  is  called  to  preside  by  the  Noble 
Grand,  she  (the  Noble  Grand)  remaining  in  the  Lodge 
room,  there  being  no  objection  made  at  the  time,  nor 
during  the  occupancy  of  the  chair  by  the  Past  Noble 
Grand.    (S.  J.  5852,  5936.) 

445.  The  Noble  Grand  appoints  all  appointive  offi- 
cers, except  Supporters  of  the  Vice  Grand.  (Digest  1847, 
p.  49;  S.  J.  1887,  1949.) 

445.  When  a  member  was  elected  Noble  Grand  at 
the  first  meeting  night  of  a  term  (at  which  meeting  the 
officers-elect  for  the  ensuing  term  should  have  been  in- 
stalled) to  fill  a  vacancy  occurring  at  the  last  meeting 
night  of  the  prior  term,  and  served  until  the  second  meet- 


83  R.  L.  IV,  §3. 

ing  night  of  the  new  term.  Held,  that  he  did  not  serve 
until  the  end  of  any  term,  and  therefore  did  not  become 
entitled  to  the  Past  Grand's  Degree.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  533, 
958,  970;  See  §  SSMnfra.) 

447.  A  Noble  Grand  has  no  legal  right  to  count  in 
the  affirmative  those  members  who  fail  to  vote.  Each 
member  must  cast  his  vote,  unless  excused  by  the  Lodge. 
(J.  1895,  p.  65;  Rules  of  Order  No.  8.) 

448.  A  Past  Grand,  who  is  also  the  District  Deputy 
Grand  Master  for  his  Lodge,  is  not  thereby  disqualified 
to  serve  as  Noble  Grand  in  the  absence  of  both  that 
officer  and  the  Vice  Grand.     (S.  J.  XXL  P-  24,  284,  314.) 

449.  It  is  lawful  for  the  acting  Noble  Grand  to  fill 
a  vacancy  in  an  appointive  office  occurring  while  she  is 
in  the  chair.     (S.  J.  XXI,  P-  31,  284,  314;  See  §  458    infra.) 

450.  When  both  the  Noble  Grand  and  Vice  Grand 
are  absent,  any  Past  Noble  Grand  may  preside,  as  de- 
termined by  a  majority  of  the  members  present,  and  not 
by  virtue  of  any  By-Law  regulation,  and  may  perform  the 
duties  of  Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand.     (W-289;  T-1142.) 

45L  The  appointive  officers  of  a  Lodge  are  ap- 
pointed by  the  Noble  Grand,  except  Supporters  of  the 
Vice  Grand,  who  are  to  be  appointed  by  that  officer. 
(S.  J.  1887,   1949.) 

452.  VICE  GRAND,  DUTIES.  —  Sec.  3. — 
The  Vice  Grand  shall  assist  the  Noble  Grand  in 
presiding  in  the  Lodge,  and  shall  appoint  her  (or 
his)  own  Supporters  and  the  minority  of  all  com- 
mittees not  otherwise  provided  for.  The  Vice 
Grand  shall  have  special  charge  of  the  inner  door, 
and  perform  all  duties  appertaining  to  said  office 
of  Vice  Grand,  and  in  the  absence  of  the  Noble 
Grand,  shall  preside  and  perform  the  duties  of  that 
office.     (J.  1895,  p.  203.) 

453.  When  the  Vice  Grand  of  a  Lodge  is  authorized 
to  appoint  her  own  Supporters,  the  Noble  Grand  cannot 
prevent  installation  on  the  ground  that  they  are  not  ac- 
ceptable to  her.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24,  365,  394.) 

454.  In  the  absence  of  the  Noble  Grand  it  is  not 
only  the   right,  but   the   duty  of  the  Vice   Grand   to   take 


R.  L.  IV,  §3. 84 

the  place  of  a  superior  officer  and  perform  all  the  duties, 
except  that  the  Vice  Grand  must  not  deliver  the  Past 
Noble  Grand's  charge.     (S.  J.  1068.) 

455.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Vice  Grand  while  occupy- 
ing the  chair  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  wear  the  regalia  of 
the  office.     (S.  J.  1475,  1511.) 

456.  The  Noble  Grand,  when  present  in  the  meeting 
of  her  Lodge,  must  preside.  Neither  the  Noble  Grand 
nor  the  Vice  Grand,  acting  as  Noble  Grand,  has  the 
power  to  waive  his  right  and  place  a  Past  Grand  in  the 
Noble  Grand's  chair,  during  the  presence  in  the  Lodge 
room  of  either  the  Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand.  This 
decision  is  not  to  be  construed  as  applicable  to  a  tempo- 
rary absence  of  those  officers  during  a  portion  of  a 
Lodge  meeting,  in  which  case  the  chair  must  be  filled  as 
provided  in  the  ritual.  (S.  J.  2676;  See  §  449,  450  supra, 
§  468,  500  infra.) 

457.  The  Past  Grand's  charge  cannot  be  delivered 
by  the  Vice  Grand  unless  the  Vice  Grand  delivering  the 
charge  be  also  a  Past  Noble  Grand.     (S.  J.  9416,  9464.) 

458.  The  Vice  Grand,  in  the  absence  of  the  Noble 
Grand,  performs  all  her  duties,  including  the  conferring 
of  the  Degree.  (S.  J.  9856,  10105,  10176.)  She  should 
perform  all  the  duties  devolving  upon  the  Noble  Grand 
required  to  be  performed  at  that  time.  The  immediate 
filling  of  a  vacancy  in  an  appointive  office,  during  a  tem- 
porary absence  of  the  Noble  Grand,  might  not  be  neces- 
sary, and  would  not,  therefore,  devolve  upon  the  Vice 
Grand  unless  the  Lodge  so  instructed  her.  (S.  J.  13256, 
13548,  13671;  See  §  449  supra) 

459.  During  the  absence  of  the  Noble  Grand  from 
the  Lodge  room,  the  Vice  Grand  must  take  the  place 
of  such  superior  officer  and  discharge  the  duties  of  the 
executive  office;  she  may  assign  a  properly  qualified 
member  to  act  during  the  conferring  of  the  Degree,  but 
she  possesses  the  unquestionable  right  to  act  as  Noble 
Grand  during  the  absence  of  that  officer,  whether  at  a 
regular,  special  or  called  meeting  of  the  Lodge,  and  she 
cannot  be  deprived  of  such  privilege,  which,  in  fact,  is 
a  duty  under  the  law.     (S.  J.  11899,  12217,  12281.) 

460.  If  the  Noble  Grand  be  absent  from  home  or 
incapacitated  from  acting,  and  there  should  be  an  emer- 


85  R.  L.  IV,  §3. 

gency,  the  Vice  Grand  has  the  same  powers  relative  to 
the  convening  of  special  meetings  as  the  Noble  Grand 
would  have  if  present  or  capable  of  acting.  (J.  1856,  p. 
181;  J.  Ill,  p.  162.) 

461.  The  Vice  Grand,  when  acting  as  Noble  Grand, 
may  confer  Degrees.  If  she  observes  any  breach  of  order 
or  decorum  which  has  escaped  the  notice  of  the  Noble 
Grand,  it  is  her  right  and  duty  to  attend  to  it,  using  her 
gavel  for  the  purpose.     (J.  I,  p.  302;  J.  V,  p.  12,  90,  91.) 

462.  As  to  the  qualifications  for  the  office  of  Vice 
Grand,  there  is  no  difference  between  an  elective  and  ap- 
pointive officer.  Either  must  have  served  one  full  term 
in  order  to  be  eligible.  (S.  J.  9858,  10105,  10176,  10251, 
10487,  10511.) 

463.  The  law  does  not  require  any  service  as  Secre- 
tary as  a  qualification  for  Vice  Grand.  Any  local  require- 
ment of  that  character  is  invalid.     (S.  J.  10145,  10186.) 

464.  A  member  who  has  held  the  office  of  Financial 
Secretary  for  six  months,  serving  a  majority  of  the  nights, 
is  eligible  to  the  office  of  Vice  Grand.     (J.  VI,  p.  137.) 

465.  In  the  absence  of  the  Vice  Grand  and  all  Past 
Noble  Grands  the  Noble  Grand  must  appoint  a  member 
to  fill  that  chair.  In  case  of  the  absence  of  the  Vice 
Grand  and  all  Past  Grands  and  Past  Vice  Grands  during 
an  initiation,  the  Noble  Grand  must  act  as  Vice  Grand, 
also  as  Past  Noble  Grand.  (J.  1856,  p.  109,  127,  128;  J.  I, 
p.  119;  J.  VI,  p.  706.) 

466.  The  Vice  Grand  of  one  Lodge  is  not  qualified 
to  open  another  Lodge,  even  if  all  the  qualified  members 
of  that  Lodge  are  absent.     (J.  V,  p.  137,  202,  230.) 

467.  A  Third  Degree  member  who  has  never  filled 
an  office  may  not  be  appointed  to  act  as  Vice  Grand 
when  a  Past  Noble  Grand  is  present.     (S.  J.  10105,  10176.) 

468.  In  the  absence  of  the  Noble  Grand,  the  Vice 
Grand  assumes  her  station  and  duties,  but  the  meeting 
would  not  be  illegal  if  she  invited  a  Past  Noble  Grand  to 
take  the  Noble  Grand's  place.     (J.  1901,  p.  12,  319.) 

469.  When  the  Noble  Grand-elect  is  absent  at  in- 
stallation, and  is  excused,  the  new  Vice  Grand,  not  the 
old  Noble  Grand,  takes  the  Noble  Grand's  chair,  and  as- 


R.  L.  IV,  §4.  86 

sumes  all  her  duties.  She  may  appoint  the  appointive 
officers,  but  this  is  a  right  to  be  exercised  with  caution 
and  wise  discretion.     (J.  1901,  p.  12,  319.) 

470.    SECRETARY,    DUTIES.— Sec.    4.— The 

Secretary  shall  keep  accurate  minutes  of  the 
proceedings  of  the  Lodge ;  write  all  communica- 
tions fill  up  all  certificates  and  cards;  issue  all 
summonses  or  notices  required ;  attest  to  all  moneys 
ordered  paid  at  regular  meetings,  and  none  other; 
and  perform  such  other  duties  appertaining  to  the 
office  as  may  be  required  by  the  Lodge,  and  shall 
receive  such  compensation  as  the  Lodge  shall  have 
fixed  prior  to  installation. 

The  Secretary  shall  make  out  at  the  end  of  the 
term  the  semi-annual  report  as  required  by  Ar- 
ticle Xn,  Section  2,  of  this  Constitution.  It  shall 
be  the  duty  of  the  Secretary  of  each  Rebekah  Lodge 
to  furnish  to  the  Secretary  of  each  Subordinate 
Lodge  to  which  any  member  of  said  Lodge  be- 
longs a  list  of  the  members  of  said  Subordinate 
Lodge  who  are  also  members  of  said  Rebekah 
Lodge,  and  thereafter  to  notify  the  Secretary  of 
the  proper  Subordinate  Lodge  when  any  brother 
shall   become   a   member   of   said    Rebekah   Lodge. 

The  Secretary  shall  also,  at  the  close  of  the 
term,  make  out  a  report  for  the  Lodge,  showing 
fully  its  work  and  condition  during  the  term ;  shall 
perform  the  duties  of  Financial  Secretary,  and  shall 
give  bond  in  the  same  manner  as  hereinafter  pre- 
scribed for  the  Financial  Secretary,  if  none  be 
chosen ;  and  shall  also  keep  a  list  of  all  warrants 
drawn  on  the  Treasurer,  recording  the  date,  amount, 
and  the  name  of  the  person  in  Avhose  favor  drawn ; 
and  if  the  warrant  be  payable  from  any  special 
fund,  that  fact  shall  appear  both   on  the   warrant 


87  R.  L.  IV,  §4. 

and  in  the  list;  and  shall  also  keep  a  register  of 
membership,  enrolling  the  names  of  the  members 
of  the  Lodge  with  date  of  proposal,  initiation,  sign- 
ing of  the  Constitution,  upon  admission  by  card, 
certificate,  or  reinstatement  after  expulsion ;  also 
with  date  of  resignation,  withdrawal  by  card,  death, 
suspension,  reinstatement  or  expulsion,  and  shall 
also  record  the  attainment  of  official  rank.  (J. 
1907,  p.  424,  425.) 

471.  Fines  may  be  inflicted  under  the  By-Laws,  but 
not  otherwise,  on  a  Secretary  who  fails,  when  necessarily 
absent,  to  send  or  deliver  his  keys  to  the  Noble  Grand 
or  Vice  Grand,  and  on  an  installed  appointed  officer,  if 
absent.     (J.  VI,  p.  119:) 

472.  The  Noble  Grand  may  be  elected  Secretary  for 
the  term  beginning  upon  the  expiration  of  the  term  for 
which  she  was  elected  Noble  Grand.  If  so  elected  and 
installed,  she  is  relieved  of  the  duty  of  giving  the  Past 
Noble  Grand's  charge  at  initiations.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  524, 
752,  820.) 

473.  When  two  Secretaries  are  employed  their  titles 
shall  be  "Recording  Secretary"  and  "Financial  Secretary," 
respectively.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  784,  949,  96Z:) 

474.  The  Recording  Secretary  is  a  ministerial  officer. 
A  Lodge  Deputy  may  act  as  Recording  Secretary,  but  a 
Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand  cannot.  The  Lodge  Deputy 
may  be  installed  as  Recording  Secretary  by  any  Past 
Grand,  or  P.  N.  G.     (S.  J.  11099,  11368,  11396.) 

475.  In  the  absence  of  the  Recording  Secretary,  the 
Secretary  pro  tempore  is  the  proper  officer  to  sign  cards, 
letters,  papers  and  documents  of  the  meeting  at  which 
he  is  officiating,  even  though  one  or  more  of  them  may 
relate  to  himself.     (S.  J.  6986,  7055.) 

476.  The  Recording  Secretary  is  the  custodian  of  the 
seal.  It  is  to  be  used  by  him  and  him  only,  and  not  by 
the  Financial  Secretary.  The  Financial  Secretary  has  no 
right  to  put  the  seal  upon  the  notices  of  arrears,  official 
certificates,  or  other  documents  which  he  issues.  The 
seal  may  not  be  used  unless  ordered  by  the  Lodge,  or  in 
accordance  with  the  enactments  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or 


R.  L.  IV,  §5. 88 

in  the  legitimate  business  of  the  Lodge  where  the  use  of 
the  seal  is  necessary.  The  Recording  Secretary  may  affix 
the  seal  of  the  Lodge  to  any  document  which  he  is  au- 
thorized or  required  to  certify  to  by  law,  whether  the 
document  has  been  brought  before  the  Lodge  or  not; 
but  he  may  not  use  the  seal  of  the  Lodge  in  any  other 
case  without  its  special  order.  (S.  J.  1318,  4240,  4374, 
4404,  4414,  6752,  6976,  7051;  J.  1853,  p.  49;  J.  IV,  p.  198, 
240,  242;  J.  V,  p.  485,  553,  584;  J.  VI,  p.  496,  552,  574,  623.) 

477.  It  rests  with  the  Lodge  to  determine  whether 
and  how  the  Secretary  shall  assist  in  the  care  of  the  sick. 
They  are  not  required  by  the  Constitution  or  by  their 
charges  to  give  notice  to  watchers,  unless  specially  or- 
dered to  do  so  by  the  Lodge.     (J.  Ill,  p.  421,  443.) 

478.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Recording  Secretary  of  a 
Subordinate  Lodge  to  furnish  any  Third  Degree  member 
in  good  standing  with  a  certificate,  certifying  that  he  is 
a  member  of  the  Lodge  in  good  standing,  with  the  seal 
attached,  to  enable  such  member  to  make  an  application 
for  membership  to  an  Encampment  or  Rebekah  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  10523,  10660.) 

479.  FINANCIAL    SECRETARY,    DUTIES. 

— Section  5. — The  Financial  Secretary  (if  any  be 
had)  shall  be  chosen  annually  at  the  election  in 
December,  and  prior  to  the  installation  in  office, 
shall  give  a  joint  and  several  bond  to  the  Trustees 
of  the  Lodge,  with  two  sureties,  to  be  approved  by 
the  Lodge,  with  such  penalties  and  conditions  as 
may  be  prescribed  by  law ;  such  bond  before  being 
presented  to  the  Lodge,  must  be  approved  by  a 
majority  of  the  Trustees.  It  shall  be  this  officer's 
duty  to  keep  just  and  true  accounts  between  the 
Lodge  and  its  members,  pay  over  to  the  Treasurer 
immediately  all  moneys  received,  and  to  inform  the 
Treasurer  from  time  to  time,  and  after  the  last  pay- 
ment in  each  term,  how  much  of  the  money  paid  in 
the  treasury  belongs  to  any  special  fund  of  the 
Lodge ;  and  shall  notify  in  writing  all  members 
who  are  at  any  time  in  arrears  for  dues  and  assess- 


89  R.  L.  IV.  §5. 

ments  accruing  against  him  or  her  during  the  period 
of  one  full  year  (delivering  the  notice  in  person,  if 
practicable,  but  if  not,  then  mailing  it  to  the  mem- 
ber's last  known  address)  and  after  the  expiration 
of  twenty  days  next  succeeding  the  giving  of  such 
notice,  if  said  member's  account  is  not  settled  in 
whole  or  in  part  sufficient  to  reduce  his  or  her  ar- 
rears to  an  amount  less  than  the  dues  and  assess- 
ments accruing  against  him  or  her  during  the  pe- 
riod of  one  full  year,  shall  present  the  name  of  such 
member  to  the  Lodge.  The  Financial  Secretary, 
prior  to  the  last  meeting  in  March,  June,  Septem- 
ber and  December,  respectively,  shall  notify  all 
members  who  are  in  arrears  for  one  quarter's  dues, 
and  at  the  dlose  of  each  semi-annual  term  shall 
make  the  Lodge  a  detailed  report  of  the  business 
of  the  office,  and  have  the  books  written  up  for  the 
Finance  Committee,  and  meet  said  committee  prior 
to  the  first  meeting  in  the  next  succeeding  term,  to 
exhibit  the  books  and  papers,  and  to  aid  them  in  the 
examination  thereof,  and  at  the  first  regular  meet- 
ing of  the  new  term,  present  the  report  to  the 
Lodge,  with  a  statement  of  the  balance  of  account 
of  each  unsuspended  member;  and  shall  make  out 
the  annual  report  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  as  required 
by  Article  XH,  Section  2,  of  this  Constitution,  and 
shall  deliver  it  to  the  Secretary  for  record  and  for- 
warding to  the  Grand  Lodge ;  and  shall  receive  such 
compensation  as  the  Lodge  shall  have  fixed  prior 
to  installation.     (J.  1907,  p.  386,  Z^7,  425.) 

480.  Where  upon  an  examination  of  a  Lodge  Secre- 
tary's books  it  is  found  that  he  is  short  twenty-five  dollars 
and  thirty-five  cents  ($25.35)  in  his  accounts,  and  the 
evidence  shows  a  willingness  on  his  part  to  pay  the  debt 
when  it  was  shown  to  him  that  he  was  short,  and  also 
that  he   did  pay   the   debt   in   sixty  days,  he  may  not  be 


R.  L.  IV,  §5.  90 

found  guilty  of  embezzlement  and  expelled  from  the  Or- 
der.    (J.   1905,  p.   146.) 

481.  When  the  office  of  Secretary  is  divided,  the 
officer  having  charge  of  its  finances  and  accounts  is  termed 
"Financial  Secretary."     (S.  J.  15759,  16071,  16116.) 

482.  The  former  Financial  Secretary's  bond  is  as 
follows: 

KNOW  ALL  MEN  BY  THESE  PRESENTS,  that 

I,   ,   as   principal, 

and  we,  ,  as  sureties, 

are  held  and  firmly  bound  unto  the  Trustees  of 

Lodge,  No ,  of  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  in  the  State  of  Illinois, 
a   corporation  organized  and  existing  under   the   laws   of 

the  State  of  Illinois,  in  the  sum  of 

dollars,  for   the  payment   of  which   well  and   truly   to   be 

made  to  the  said  Trustees  of  Lodge  No ,  as 

aforesaid,  bind  ourselves,  our  heirs,  executors  and  ad- 
ministrators, jointly  and  severally,  firmly  by  these 
presents. 

Sealed  with  our  seals,  and  dated  this 

day  of ,   190 

Whereas,  the  said , 

has  been  elected  Financial  Secretary  of  the  said 

Lodge,  No ,  for  the  term 

commencing  on  the  first  day  of  January,  190....,  and  ending 
on  the  thirty-first  day  of  December  following,  and  until  his 
successor  shall  be  duly  elected  and  qualified. 

Now,    therefore,    the    condition    of    this    obligation    is 

such,  that  if  the  said , 

Financial  Secretary,  shall  faithfully  and  honestly  perform 
all  the  duties  of  the  said  office,  as  specified  in  the  Con- 
stitution and  By-Laws  of  said  Lodge,   No ,  and 

the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  of 
the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  this  obligation 
shall  be  void,  otherwise  it  shall  be  in  full  force. 

(Seal) 

(Seal) 

(Seal) 

Signed,  sealed  and  delivered  in  presence  of. 

Recording  Secretary  of Lodge, 

No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 


91  R.  L.  IV,  §5. 

This  bond  must  be  approved  by  the  Lodge  before  the 
installation  of  ofificers  with  sureties  required  by  law.  If 
a  Financial  Secretary  is  re-elected,  a  new  bond  must  be 
given.  The  Chairman  of  the  Trustees  is  the  proper  cus- 
todian of  this  bond.     (T-1152;  See  §  498  infra.) 

483.  When  the  Lodge  bonds  its  officers  with  a  Surety 
Company,  it  is  not  permitted  to  accept  any  form  of  bond 
other  than  the  one  prescribed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  for 
that  purpose.  This  form  will  be  found  in  Section  499 
infra.  If  no  Surety  Company  can  be  found  who  will 
execute  a  bond  on  this  form,  it  will  be  necessary  to  ac- 
cept a  personal  bond.  (J.  1907,  p.  47-53,  both  inclusive, 
429.) 

484.  The  Secretary  should  not  pay  money  to  a 
Treasurer  who  has  not  been  legally  installed  with  a  valid 
bond,  and  in  case  of  illegal  installation,  the  Lodge  should 
direct  the  Secretary  how  to  make  such  ipayment.  (J.  IV, 
p.  10,  52,  53.) 

485.  Should  a  Financial  Secretary  become  satisfied 
that  a  payment  was  made  to  him  which  he  has  omitted 
to  enter,  he  has  a  right  to  enter  such  payment  and  give 
credit  for  the  payment  as  of  the  date  when  it  was  ac- 
tually made.     (J.  IV,  p.  9,  34,  52.) 

486.  It  is  unlawful  for  a  Financial  Secretary  to  give 
any  receipt  for  dues,  assessments  or  fines  except  the 
official  certificates,  and  it  is  unlawful  for  any  Lodge  to 
permit  him  to  do  so.     (J.  1901,  p.  11,  319.) 

487.  A  Financial  Secretary  is  required  to  send  writ- 
ten notices  of  arrears  at  stated  times;  should  he  fail  to 
do  so,  a  Lodge  may  not  take  advantage  of  his  neglect. 
(J.  1901,  p.  11,  319.) 

488.  Under  the  Constitution,  the  Financial  Secretary 
informs  the  Treasurer  from  time  to  time,  or  at  the  close 
of  the  semi-annual  term,  how  much  of  the  funds  belong 
to  any  special  fund.  Any  error  he  may  make  may  be 
corrected  on  proper  report  of  the  Finance  Committee. 
(J.  1901,  p.  12,  319.) 

489.  Under  Article  IV,  Section  5,  of  the  Rebekah 
Constitution,  it  is  the  duty  of  the  Financial  Secretary,  at 
the  first  meeting  of  each  term,  to  make  a  written  report, 
giving  the  balance  of  account  of  each  member  of  the 
Lodge.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 


R.  L.  IV,  §6.  92 

490.    TREASURER,    DUTIES.— Sec.    6.— The 

Treasurer  shall  be  elected  annually  at  the  elec- 
tion in  December,  and,  prior  to  installation  in  office, 
shall  give  a  joint  and  several  bond  to  the  Trustees 
of  the  Lodge,  w^ith  two  sureties,  to  be  approved  by 
the  Lodge,  with  such  penalties  and  conditions  as 
from  time  to  time  may  be  prescribed  by  the  Lodge. 
Such  bond,  before  being  presented  to  the  Lodge, 
must  have  been  submitted  to  and  approved  by  a 
majority  of  the  Trustees.  The  Treasurer  shall  keep 
the  funds,  notes  and  securities  of  the  Lodge,  pay  all 
the  orders  drawn  on  the  Treasurer  by  the  Noble 
Grand  and  attested  by  the  Secretary,  and  none 
other;  keep  a  full  account  of  all  moneys  expended, 
and  give  the  Lodge,  at  the  first  meeting  of  each 
month,  a  statement  of  its  funds ;  shall  keep  a  sepa- 
rate account  of  any  special  fund  instituted  by  the 
Lodge,  and  report  to  the  Financial  Secretary,  at  "or 
before  the  last  meeting  in  each  term,  any  money  re- 
ceived as  interest  or  dividends  on  any  notes,  securi- 
ties, or  stocks  held.  The  Treasurer  shall  make  out 
for  the  Lodge,  at  the  close  of  the  term,  a  full  report 
of  receipts  and  disbursements,  and  have  the  books 
written  up  for  the  Finance  Committee ;  meet  said 
committee  prior  to  the  first  meeting  in  the  next  suc- 
ceeding term  to  exhibit  the  books,  papers,  securi- 
ties, bonds,  funds,  and  other  property  belonging  to 
the  Lodge  in  possession  of  the  Treasurer,  and  at  the 
first  regular  meeting  of  the  next  term  shall  present 
the  report  to  the  Lodge.  The  Treasurer  shall  pay 
over  and  deliver  up,  when  legally  called  upon,  all 
moneys,  books,  bonds,  papers,  and  other  property 
in  said  officer's  possession  or  control  belonging  to 
the  Lodge,  to  her  (or  his)  successor  in  office,  or  to 
such  person  as  the  Lodge  may  appoint  to  receive 
the  same.     (J.  1895,  p.  204.) 


93  R.  L.  IV,  §6. 

491.  Where  a  defaulting  Lodge  Treasurer  ofifers  to 
turn  over  property  to  the  Lodge  to  make  good  his  short- 
age, the  Lodge  may  refuse  to  receive  it.  He  had  no  right 
to  use  or  to  invest  the  money,  as  it  was  a  trust  fund. 
He  cannot  discharge  his  obligation  in  any  other  way  than 
to  pay  back  the  money.  An  attempt  on  the  part  of  the 
Lodge  to  release  such  Treasurer  from  his  defalcation  is 
illegal  and  void.  (J.  1896,  p.  ISO,  160;  S.  J.  9999,  10000, 
10152.) 

492.  A  brother  cannot  hold  the  two  offices  of  Re- 
cording Secretary  and  Treasurer  at  the  same  time  in  any 
Lodge  in  the  Order,  Grand  or  Subordinate,  as  the  case 
may  be.     (S.  J.  1025S,  10487,  10511.) 

493.  Previous  to  his  installation,  the  Treasurer  must 
give  bond  as  required  by  law,  which  must  be  presented 
and  approved  by  the  Lodge  before  installation.  If  a 
Treasurer  be  re-elected,  a  new  bond  must  be  given.  A 
bond  containing  interlineations  or  erasures  should  not  be 
approved.  The  chairman  of  the  Trustees  is  the  proper 
custodian  of  the  bond.     (T-1154.) 

494.  The  Treasurer  must  receipt  for  all  moneys, 
bonds,  securities,  documents  and  papers  given  into  his 
hands  by  and  through  the  hands  of  the  Trustees.  (J.  VI, 
p.  497,  551,  574,  623.) 

495.  He  may  refuse  to  pay  an  order  which  he  knows 
to  have  been  drawn  by  mistake  or  fraud  until  he  can  re- 
port the  facts  to  the  Lodge.     (W-304;  T-1163.) 

496.  He,  and  not  the  Trustees,  is  the  proper  cus- 
todian, not  only  of  the  funds,  but  of  all  notes,  bonds 
(except  official  bonds)  etc.,  belonging  to  the  Lodge.  (J. 
V,  p.  13,  91.) 

497.  The  form  of  the  Treasurer's  bond  is  as  follows: 
KNOW  ALL  MEN  BY  THESE  PRESENTS,  that 

L  ,  as  principal, 

and  we,   ,   as   sureties, 

are  held  and  firmly  bound  unto  the  Trustees  of 

Lodge,   No , 

of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  in  the  State 
of  Illinois,  a  corporation  duly  organized  and  existing  un- 
der the  laws  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  in  the  sum  of 

dollars,  for  the  payment  of  which  well 


R.  L.  IV,  §6.  94 

and  trul}^  to  be  made  to  the  said  Trustees  of 

Lodge,  No ,  as  afore- 
said, we  bind  ourselves,  our  heirs,  executors  and  admin- 
istrators, jointly  and  severally,  firmly  by  these  presents. 

Sealed  with  our  seals  and  dated  this 

day   of nineteen   hundred 

Whereas,     The   said , 

has  been  elected  Treasurer  of  the  said 

Lodge,    No ,   for   the   term   commencing   on   the 

first  day  of  January,  190 ,  and  ending  on  the  thirtj^-first 

day  of  December  following,  and  until  his  successor  shall  be 
duly  elected  and  qualified,  by  reason  whereof  divers  sums 
of    money,    bonds,    choses    in    action,    chattels    and    other 

property  belonging  to  said  Lodge  No ,  will  come 

into  his  hands. 

Now,  therefore,  the  condition  of  the  above  obligation 

is  such,  tliat  if  the   said , 

Treasurer,  shall  keep  a  regular  and  correct  account  of  all 
moneys  received  by  him  as  Treasurer,  and  pay  out  the 
same,   or   any   portion   thereof,   upon   the   proper   order   of 

said    Lodge    No ,    and    not    otherwise;    and    shall 

safely  keep,  and  upon  the  expiration  of  his  term  of  oflfice, 
and  whenever  by  said  Lodge  required,  shall  render  unto 

said    Lodge    No a   just   and    true    account   of   all 

such  sum  or  sums  of  money,  bonds,  choses  in  action, 
chattels  and  other  property  as  shall  at  any  time  have  come 
into  his  hands,  charge  or  possession,  as  Treasurer  of  said 
Lodge;  and  shall  pay  and  deliver  over  to  his  successor  in 
office  upon  demand  of  him,  made  by  his  successor,  or  by 

said    Lodge    No ,    all    such    balance    of   sums    of 

money,  bonds,  choses  in  action,  chattels  and  other  prop- 
erty which  shall  at  any  time  have  come  into  his  hands, 
possession     or     control,     as     Treasurer     of     said     Lodge 

No ,  and  if  the  said , 

Treasurer,   shall   not  wrong  said  Lodge   No to 

the  value  of  anything,  nor  take  part  or  share,  directly  or 
indirectly,  in  any  illegal  distribution  of  the  funds  or  other 

property  of  said  Lodge  No ,  but  shall,  to  the  best 

of  his  ability  endeavor  to  prevent  any  such  perversion  of 
Lodge  property,  and  shall  in  all  things  well  and  truly, 
honestly  and  faithfully  perform  all  and  singular  his  duties 
as  Treasurer  of  said  Lodge  No during  his  con- 


95  R.  L.  IV,  §6. 

tinuance  in  office,  then  the  above  obligation  to  be  void; 

otherwise  to  remain  in  full  force  and  virtue. 

(Seal) 

(Seal) 

(Seal) 

Signed,  sealed  and  delivered  in  presence  of, 

Recording    Secretary    of Lodge, 

No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.     (T-1154.) 

498.  In  case  a  Subordinate  Lodge  accepts  a  surety 
bond  of  its  Treasurer  or  Financial  Secretary,  the  form  of 
the  bond  used  must  be  first  approved  by  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter or  the  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals.  (J.  1901, 
p.  32,  262,  288;  J.  1902,  p.  263.) 

499.  Where  the  Lodge  bonds  its  officers  with  a 
Surety  Company,  the  bond  executed  by  the  Company 
must  be  a  bond  in  the  following  prescribed  form,  and  no 
other: 

TREASURER'S  BOND. 

KNOW  ALL  MEN  BY  THESE  PRESENTS,   That 

I as  principal,  and  we 

as  sureties,  are 

held  and  firmly  bound  unto  the  Trustees  of 

Rehekah  Lodge  No 

of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  in  the  State  of 
Illinois,  a  corporation  duly  organized  and  existing 
under  the  laws  of  the   State  of  Illinois,  in  the  sum  of 

Dollars,  for  the  payment 

of  which,  well  and  truly  to  he  made  to  said  Trustees  of 

Rehekah  Lodge  No 

as  aforesaid,  xoe  hind  ourselves,  our  heirs,  executors 
and  administrators,  jointly  and  severally,  firmly  by 
these  presents. 

Sealed  with  our  seals  and  doted  this 

day  of nineteen  hundred 

WHEREAS,  the  said 

(hereinafter  called  Principal)   has  been  elected  Treasurer 

of   the   said Rebekah    Lodge, 

No ,  for  the  term  commencing  on  the  first  day 

of  January,  190 ,  and  ending  on  the  thirty-first  day  of 

December,    following,    and    until    his    successor    shall    be 


R.  L.  IV,  §6.  96 

duly  elected  and  qualified,  by  reason  whereof  divers  sums 
of    money,    bonds,    choses    in    action,    chattels    and    other 

property  belonging  to  said  Rebekah  Lodge,  No , 

will  come  into  his  hands,  control  or  possession. 

Now,  therefore,  the  condition  of  the  above  obligation 

is  such,  that  if  the  said , 

Treasurer,  shall  keelp  a  regular  and  correct  account  of  all 
moneys  received  by  him  as  such  Treasurer  and  pay  out 
the  same,  or  any  portion  thereof,  upon  the  proper  order  of 

said    Rebekah    Lodge,    No ,    and    not    otherwise, 

and  shall  safely  keep,  and  upon  expiration  of  his  term  of 
office,  and  whenever  by  said  Lodge  required,  shall  render 

unto  said  Rebekah  Lodge,   No ,  a  just  and  true 

account  of  all  such  sum  or  sums  of  money,  bonds,  choses 
in  action,  chattels  and  other  property,  as  shall  at  any 
time  have  come  into  his  hands,  charge  or  possession,  as 
Treasurer  of  said  Rebekah  Lodge;  and  shall  pay  and  de- 
liver over  to  his  successor  in  office,  upon  demand  of  him 

made  by  his  successor,  or  by  said  Rebekah  Lodge  No , 

all  such  balances  or  sums  of  money,  bonds,  choses  in  ac- 
tion, chattels,  and  other  property  which  shall  at  any  time 
have  come  into  his  hands,  possession  or  control,  as  Treas- 
urer   of   said   Rebekah    Lodge,    No ;    and   if   the 

said ,    Treasurer,    shall 

not  wrong  this  Rebekah  Lodge,  No ,  to  the  value 

of  anything,  nor  take  part  or  share,  directly  or  indirectly, 
in  any  illegal  distribution  of  the  funds  or  other  property 

of  said   Rebekah   Lodge,   No ,   but  shall,   to   the 

best  of  his  ability,  endeavor  to  prevent  any  such  perver- 
sion of  Lodge  property,  and  shall  in  all  things  well  and 
truly,    honestly    and    faithfully,    perform    all    and    singular 

his  duties  as  Treasurer  of  said  Rebekah  Lodge,  No , 

during  his  continuance  in  office,  then  the  above  obligation 
be  void;  otherwise  to  remain  in  full  force  and  virtue. 

This  bond  and  obligation  is  executed,  delivered  and 
accepted  by  the  respective  parties  hereto,  upon,  and  sub- 
ject to  the  following  conditions,  to-wit: 

First.  That  the  said  Trustees,  or  either  of  them,  on 
becoming  aware  of  any  act  which  may  be  made  the  basis 
of  any  claim  hereunder,  shall,  within  thirty  (30)  days 
after  such  knowledge  shall  have  come  to  them,  or  either 
of  them,  give  the  said  surety  notice  thereof  in  writing,  by 


97  R.  L.  IV,  §6. 

registered  letter,  addressed  to  the  President  of  said  Surety 
at ,  and  shall,  within  ninety- 
days  after  said  Trustees,  or  either  of  them,  become  aware 
of  such  act  as  aforesaid,  file  with  or  present  to  the  said 
Surety  a  claim  hereunder,  duly  sworn  to,  together  with  a 
statement  of  all  the  facts  and  circumstances  concerning 
such  claim,  as  shall  have  come  to  the  knowledge  of  said 
Trustees,  or  either  of  them,  and  if  required  by  said  Surety, 
the  said  Trustees  shall  also  produce,  for  investigation  by 
said  Surety,  or  its  representatives,  at  the  Lodge  room  of 

said  Lodge  No all  proper  books,  vouchers  and 

evidence  as  may  be  required  by  the  said  Surety,  and 
which  may  be  within  the  knowledge  and  control  of  said 
Trustees,  or  either  of  them,  concerning  said  claim,  and 
unless  notice  as  aforesaid  shall  have  been  given  as  above 
provided  for,  and  claim  filed  or  presented  within  the  time 
above  provided  that  the  same  shall  be  filed  or  presented, 
and  until  such  books,  vouchers  and  evidence  (if  required, 
as  aforesaid)  shall  have  been  furnished  to  said  Surety  for 
investigation  as  above  stated,  the  said  Surety  shall  not  be, 
in  any  manner,  liable  for  such  claim,  under  or  by  virtue 
of  this  bond  or  obligation.  Provided,  that  the  said  Surety 
shall  not,  in  any  manner  whatsoever,  be  liable  under  this 
bond  or  obligation  for  any  claim  hereunder,  unless  such 
claim  shall  be  filed  with  or  presented  to  said  Surety  within 
a  period  of  one  year  from  and  after  the  death,  resignation, 
or  removal  from  said  office  of  said  Principal,  or  from 
the  time  of  the  expiration  or  cancellation  of  this  bond  or 
obligation. 

Second.  That  if  the  said  Surety  shall  so  elect,  this 
bond  or  obligation  may  be  cancelled  at  any  time  by  giving 
thirty  (30)  days  notice  in  writing,  to  the  said  Trustees, 
or  to  either  of  them,  and  this  bond  or  obligation  shall  be 
deemed  cancelled  at  the  expiration  of  the  said  thirty  (30) 
days.  Provided,  however,  that  said  Surety  in  this  bond 
or  obligation  shall  remain  in  force  as  to  and  be  liable  for 
all  and  every  act  or  duty  to  be  done  and  performed  by  the 
said  Principal,  as  the  same  are  set  forth  in  this  bond  or 
obligation  to  be  done  and  performed  by  him,  up  to  the 
date  of  said  cancellation,  under  the  terms,  conditions  and 
provision  of  this  bond  or  obligation.  The  said  Surety 
shall,  upon  the  surrender  of  this  bond  or  obligation,  and 
its  release  from  all  liability  thereunder,  refund  to  the  said 


R.  L.  IV,  §7.  98 

Trustees,  the  compensation  paid  to  said  Surety,  less  a 
pro  rata  part  thereof,  for  the  time  this  bond  or  obligation 
shall  have  been  in  force. 

(Seal) 

(Seal) 

(Seal) 

_ (Seal) 

Xote — This  bond  must  be  aisproved  by  majority  of  the  Trustees, 
and  afterwards  be  presented  to  aud  approved  by  the  Lodge,  before 
installaltion  oi  oft'icers  begins.  If  a  Treasurer  be  re-eleeted  a  new  bond 
must  be  given.  A  bond  containing  interlineations  or  erasures  should 
not  be  approved.  The  Chairman  of  the  Trustees  is  the  proper  cus- 
todian of  this  bond. 

Signed,  sealed  and  delivered  iyi  the  presence  of  - 

Recording  Secretary  of. 

Lodge  JVo ,  in  Illinois. 

This  same  form  may  be  modified  so  as  to  be  appli- 
cable for  a  Financial  Secretary's  bond.  (J.  1907,  p.  50,  53, 
429.) 

500.  PAST  NOBLE  GRAND,  DUTIES.— 
Sec.  7. — It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Junior  Past  No- 
ble Grand  of  this  Lodge  to  act  in  the  capacity  of 
Past  Xoble  Grand,  but  the  charge  of  that  office  may 
be  delivered  by  any  competent  member.  Any  Past 
Noble  Grand  may  act  as  Noble  Grand  or  Vice 
Grand  when  legally  called  upon  to  do  so.  (J.  1895. 
p.  204.) 

501.  A  Past  Xoble  Grand,  if  duly  appointed,  can  in- 
stitute a  Rebekah  Lodge.  The  appointment  must  come 
from  the  Grand  Master.     (S.  J.  14674,  14948,  15019.) 

502.  At  the  institution  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  and  dur- 
ing the  first  term  of  such  Lodge,  when  no  Past  Noble 
Grand  is  present,  any  member  in  good  standing  may  be 
selected  to  fill  the  Past  Noble  Grand's  chair.  (S.  J.  XXL 
p.  867,  884.) 

503.  A  Past  Noble  Grand  should  wear  the  regalia  of 
her  office  in  the  Lodge  (if  obtainable)  and  should,  unless 
she  be  an  officer,  neither  enter,  remain  in  nor  leave  the 
Lodge  when  open,  without  it.     (S.  J.  13256,  13548,  13671.) 

504.  A  Lodge  cannot  create  a  Past  Xoble  Grand  by 
vote  or  resolution.  (S.  J.  15751,  16071,  16116;  See  §  457, 
465,  472  st(])ra.) 


99  R.  L.  IV,  §9. 

505.  OTHER     OFFICERS,     DUTIES.  —  Sec. 

8. — All  other  officers  shall  perform  such  duties 
as  are  prescribed  for  them  by  the  charges  of  their 
respective  offices,  and  the  requirements  of  the  laws 
and  regulations  of  this  Lodge.     (J.  1895,  p.  205.) 

506.  The  Conductor  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  has  the 
right  to  hold  that  position  in  the  team  when  ordered  to 
vacate  it  by  the  Noble  Grand  and  Captain  of  the  team. 
(S.  J.  XXI,  p.  536,  752,  820;  S.  J.  14675,  14948,  15019.) 

507.  The  Outside  Guardian  must  not  admit  members 
of  his  own  Lodge  to  the  ante-room  without  the  alarm, 
when  the  Lodge  is  open.  The  Outside  Guardian  should 
require  a  strict  observance  of  the  regulations  of  the  Order. 
If  the  Outside  Guardian  is  absent  at  the  beginning  of  the 
opening  ceremony,  but  arrives  before  it  is  completed,  he 
shall  take  his  place  at  once.  (J.  1856,  p.  30;  J.  VI,  p.  913, 
1023.) 

508.  HONORS  OF  OFFICE.— Sec.  9.— Offi- 
cers must  serve  a  majority  of  the  meetings  held 
in  the  term,  and  to  the  end  of  the  term,  in  order  to 
be  entitled  to  the  honors  of  off"ice.  Officers  elected 
to  fill  vacancies,  and  serving  to  the  end  of  the  term, 
shall  be  entitled  to  the  honors  of  said  office.  (J. 
1896,  p.  306,  318.) 

509.  Officers  must  serve  a  majority  of  the  meetings 
held  in  the  term,  and  to  the  end  of  the  term,  in  order  to 
be  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  office.  Officers  elected 
to  fill  vacancies,  and  serving  to  the  end  of  the  term,  shall 
be  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  office.  (S.  J.  14921,  15009, 
15071;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  13.) 

510.  All  officers  of  consolidated  Lodges  who  shall 
have  served  a  majority  of  the  regular  meetings  of  the 
current  term  prior  to  such  consolidation,  if  more  than 
one-half  of  such  term  shall  have  expired,  shall  be  entitled 
to  the  honors  of  the  office  in  which  they  have  so  served; 
but  if  they  shall  not  have  served  a  majority  of  all  such 
meetings,  or,  if  not  more  than  one-half  of  the  current 
term  shall  have  expired  at  the  time  of  such  consolidation, 
then,  and  in  that  case,  they  shall  not  be  entitled  to  such 


R.  L.  IV,  §10.  100 

honors.      (Sec.  7,  Art.  XI,   Grand  Lodge   Constitution;  J. 
1905,  p.  175,  342;  Code  1906,  Sec.  666H.) 

511.  When  a  Lodge  fails  to  hold  meetings  for  a  ma- 
jority of  the  nights  of  the  term,  the  officers  are  not  en- 
titled to  honors.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  44,  365,  394;  Code  1111.) 
But  where  the  meetings  are  forbidden  by  government 
quarantine  for  the  major  part  of  the  term,  the  officers  are 
entitled  to  the  honors  if  they  were  present  at  the  meet- 
ings.    (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  505,  827,  873.) 

512.  The  election  and  installation  of  officers  held  and 
performed  by  the  Lodge  during  a  period  while  it  is  under 
expulsion  or  suspension  is  illegal  and  void.  Officers, 
whose  terms  of  office  expire  during  such  term,  are  not 
entitled  to  the  honors  of  such  offices  which  they  have 
filled  during  such  period  of  expulsion  or  suspension. 
When  the  Lodge  is  resuscitated  they  resume  their  several 
offices  without  regard  to  the  duration  of  the  period  of 
suspension.     (S.  J.  1391,  1494.) 

513.  By  voluntarily  withdrawing  from  the  duties  of 
a  station,  an  officer  forfeits  the  honors  thereof,  and  the 
successor  who  fulfills  the  duties  for  the  unexpired  term 
becomes  entitled  to  the  honors.  (S.  J.  1244,  5834,  5877; 
Code  1357.) 

514.  PAST  OFFICERS  OF  SUBORDINATE 
LODGES. — Sec.  10. — ^Service  in  office  in  a  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  shall  not  be  a  qualification  for  office 
in  this  Lodge,  and  a  Past  Officer  in  a  Subordinate 
Lodge  shall  not  be  entitled,  by  reason  thereof,  to 
any  special  privileges  in  this  Lodge,  other  than 
wearing  the  collar  of  the  highest  rank  attained.  (J. 
1895,  p.  205.) 

ARTICLE  v.— STANDING  COMMITTEES. 

515.  COMMITTEES  CREATED.— Section  1. 
— The  Standing  Committees  of  this  Lodge  shall  be : 
A  Committee  of  Trustees,  a  Visiting  and  Relief 
Committee,  a  Finance  Committee,  and  such  other 
committees  as  may  be  created  by  the  By-Laws. 
(J.  1895,  p.  205.) 


101  R.  L.  V,  §2. 

516.  Although  the  By-Laws  may  be  silent  upon  the 
subject,  yet,  when  appointed  on  a  Committee,  it  is  the 
duty  of  a  member  of  a  Lodge  to  serve,  unless  excused  by 
the  Noble  Grand  or  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  8839,  9025,  9101.) 

517.  Committees  duly  appointed  by  the  Lodge  or 
under  its  authority,  may  not,  without  permission  given  by 
the  Lodge,  add  to  the  number  of  their  members  or  assign 
their  duties  to  others.  An  absent  member  may  be  ap- 
pointed on  a  Committee  in  the  discretion  of  the  Lodge, 
but  cannot  be  considered,  derelict  if  he  fails  to  attend  to 
its  duties,  and  declines.     (J.  1856,  p.  118,  107.) 

518.  A  Committee  has  no  power  to  draw  on  the 
Treasurer  of  a  Lodge  for  money.     (J.  1856,  p.  232.) 

519.  Committees  on  matters  of  grievance  or  discip- 
line, and  Committees  for  the  examination  of  visitors  must 
always  be  Special  Committees;  and  they  must  not  be  made 
standing  Committees  by  the  By-Laws  of  the  Lodge.  J.  I, 
p.  148.) 

520.  Lodges  are  forbidden  to  meet  for  the  transaction 
of  business  on  Sunday.  Committees  of  Lodges,  if  they 
shall  choose  to  adopt  for  themselves  another  rule,  in  viola- 
tion of  law,  cannot  oblige  the  members  thereof  to  attend 
in  violation  of  their  conscientious  scruples,  and  a  Lodge 
has  no  right  to  require  attendance  of  its  officers  or  mem- 
bers at  such  meetings,  or  to  inflict  a  penalty  for  such 
non-attendance.     (S.  J.  6329.) 

521.  TRUSTEES,  WHEN  AND  HOW 
ELECTED,  DUTIES  OF.— Sec.  2.— Five  Trus- 
tees shall  annually  be  chosen  by  ballot  at  the  regu- 
lar election  in  December,  and  a  plurality  of  votes 
shall  elect.  The  term  of  office  shall  begin  January 
first  following  their  election,  after  having  qualified 
as  hereinbelow  provided,  and  the  Trustees  shall 
hold  their  oft'ice  until  their  successors  shall  have 
been  elected  and  qualified  by  filing  certificates  of 
election  as  herein  provided.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of 
the  Recording  Secretary,  within  one  week  after  said 
election,  to  file  with  the  County  Recorder  of  the 
county  wherein  such  Lodge  is  located,  a  certificate 


R.  L.  V,  §2.  102 

under  seal  of  the  Lodge,  of  the  election  of  said 
Trustees,  such  certificate  setting  forth  also  that  the 
term  of  office  of  said  Trustees  begins  on  January 
first  following.  Failure  to  so  file  said  certificate 
shall  not  vacate  the  office,  but  said  Trustees  elected 
shall  have  power  to  act  as  such  as  soon  as  such 
certificate  is  filed.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  said 
newly-elected  Trustees,  when  qualified  as  above,  to 
approve  the  bonds  of  the  newly-elected  officers, 
also  to  act  as  an  Executive  Committee  of  the  Lodge 
in  carrying  out  all  acts  not  otherwise  provided  for ; 
to  procure  Lodge  room,  fuel,  lights,  regalia,  and  all 
things  necessary  for  the  comfort  of  the  Lodge,  un- 
der its  directions.  They  shall  have  the  guardianship 
of  all  widows  and  orphans  of  the  Lodge,  and  carry 
out  all  provisions  of  the  Lodge  in  relation  to  them  ; 
and  shall  from  time  to  time  recommend  such  action 
as  they  may  deem  necessary  for  the  prosperity  of 
the  Lodge.  They  shall  present  to  the  Lodge  at  the 
close  of  their  term  of  office  a  written  report  of  their 
proceedings.     (J.  1895,  p.  205.) 

522.  It  is  competent  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  enact 
legislation  providing  that  no  elective  officer  of  a  Subor- 
dinate or  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  serve  as  Trustee  of  its 
funds,  provided  such  legislation  does  not  render  a  mem- 
ber holding  the  position  of  such  Trustee  ineligible  to  elec- 
tion to  office,  if  otherwise  qualified,  but  providing  in  effect 
that  if  a  member  serving  as  such  Trustee  should  accept 
an  elective  office,  the  position  of  such  Trustee  becomes 
vacant,  and  further  providing  that  an  elective  officer, 
while  serving  as  such,  cannot  be  elected  or  appointed  as 
such  Trustee.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  521,  752,  820.) 

Trustees  as  above  referred  to  are  not  the  Trustees  to  be  elected 
under  §  521  supra,  but  are  equitable  Trustees,  so  to  speak,  and 
should  be  considered  as  Special  Committees. — (Editor.) 

523.  The  authority  for  the  election  of  Trustees  is  to 
be  found  in  the  Act  of  Incorporation  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
The  Grand  Lodge  may  not  change  this  provision  of  the 


103  R.  L.  V,  §2. 

Subordinate  Lodge  Constitution  so  as  to  make  it  conflict 
with  the  Act  of  Incorporation.     (J.  1904,  p.  265,  325.) 

524.  It  is  not  expedient  that  either  the  Noble  Grand, 
the  Vice  Grand,  Secretary  or  Treasurer,  shall  be  a  mem- 
ber of  the  Board  of  Trustees.  Unless  he  is  elected  to 
fill  a  vacancy,  the  term  of  a  Trustee  begins  on  the  first 
of  January  after  he  is  elected,  and  he  serves  a  full  year. 
(J.  1856,  p.  118;  J.  Ill,  p.  160,  193,  200;  J.  VI,  p.  914,  1023.) 

525.  If  there  is  a  tie  in  the  vote  for  the  election  of 
Trustees,  another  ballot  must  be  held,  in  which  the  mem- 
bers vote  to  fill  as  many  vacancies  as  are  not  filled  by 
reason  of  the  tie  or  ties;  they  do  not  vote  for  a  full  ticket 
of  five  persons  unless  all  are  tied.     (J.  VI,  p.  236,  326,  343.) 

526.  Lodges  may  not  make  By-Laws  that  Trustees 
shall  hold  office  during  good  behavior;  and  they  can  be 
displaced  from  their  Trusteeship  only  on  conviction  of 
official  misconduct.  Only  the  Lodge,  and  not  the  Noble 
Grand,  can  remove  Trustees.  (J.  1856,  p.  171;  J.  Ill,  p. 
268;  J.  IV,  p.  9,  52,  53.) 

527.  Trustees  cannot  have  the  power  given  them  to 
draw  upon  the  Treasurer  for  funds  for  investment.  (J. 
VI,  p.  576,  602.) 

528.  A  Lodge  may  not  instruct  its  Trustees  to  take 
the  money  of  a  Lodge  and  deposit  the  same  in  a  savings 
bank  payable  to  their  order.     (J.  V,  p.  684,  791,  792.) 

529.  The  Trustees,  and  not  the  Treasurer,  are  the 
proper  custodians  of  the  Treasurer's  and  all  other  official 
bonds.     (J.  V,  p.  402.) 

530.  If  the  Trustees  are  instructed  to  purchase  any- 
thing for  the  Lodge,  common  business  rules  are  to  be 
followed;  and  if  they  can  not  obtain  the  articles  without  the 
money,  they  cannot  be  compelled  to  advance  the  money, 
but  may  ask  the  Lodge  to  advance  it.     (J.  V,  p.  358,  362.) 

531.  All  inembers  are  bound  to  obey  the  legal  man- 
dates of  their  Lodge;  if  Trustees  refuse  or  neglect  to  re- 
port on  the  financial  condition  of  the  Lodge  when  ordered 
so  to  do  by  it,  they  are  liable  to  fine  or  other  penalty 
at  the  discretion  of  the  Lodge.     (J.  I,  p.  302.) 

532.  Trustees  should  immediately  pay  over  all 
moneys  received  to  the  Financial  Secretary.  They  have 
no  authority  to  expend   Lodge  funds,   except  as   dictated 


R.  L.  V,  §3.  104 

by  the  Lodge,  and  cannot  draw  warrants  on  the  Treas- 
urer.    (J.  1901,  p.  10,  319.) 

533.  A  member  may  be  Trustee  and  Delegate  to  the 
Assembly  at  the  same  time.     (J.  1895,  p.  80.) 

534.  Suits  at  law  against  a  Lodge  should  be  brought 
against  the  Trustees.  (Section  5,  Act  of  Incorporation  of 
the  Grand  Lodge;  See  §  20,  21,  22  suj^ra,    §  535  infra.) 

535.  Suits  brought  by  a  Lodge  should  be  brought  in 
the  name  of  the  Lodge.  (Section  1,  Amended  Act  of  In- 
corporation of  the  Grand  Lodge;  See  §  20,  21,  22,  534 
supra.) 

536.  Investments  should  be  made  in  the  name  of  the 
Lodge.     (Section  2,  Amended  Act  of  Incorporation.) 

537.  The  laws  of  the  Order  require  that  the  Trustees 
of  Lodges  have  their  respective  Lodge  properties  and 
effects  insured.  This  wise  provision  of  our  law  should  be 
strictly  enforced,  and  no  brother  should  be  permitted  to 
hold  the  important  office  of  Trustee  who  is  so  negligent 
of  his  obligations  and  duties  to  his  Lodge  and  the  Order 
as  to  fail  to  protect  the  Lodge  against  loss  by  fire.  (J. 
1895,  p.  173,  241.) 

538.  In  order  to  compel  a  strict  enforcement  of  this 
law,  in  the  commissions  issued  to  Lodge  Deputies,  they 
are  strictly  instructed  and  enjoined  to  see  that  the  Trus- 
tees have  the  Lodge  property  and  effects  insured.  (J. 
VIII,  p.  502,  519.) 

539.  VISITING    COMMITTEE.  —  Sec.    3. — 

The  Visiting  and  Relief  Committee  shall  consist  of 
seven  sisters,  the  Noble  Grand  to  be  chairman, 
whose  duty  shall  be  to  visit  the  sick,  relieve  the 
distressed,  and  in  every  way  assist  Subordinate  and 
sister  Rebekah  Lodges  in  kindly  ministrations  to 
the  families  of  Odd  Fellows  who  are  in  trouble  or 
want.  They  shall  keep  themselves  at  all  times  in- 
formed thereon,  and  shall  report  the  condition  of 
those  who  may  be  sick,  in  distress,  in  trouble,  or  in 
want.  Only  the  sisters  of  this  Lodge  shall  be  re- 
quired to  watch  with  the  sick,  etc.,  whenever  noti- 
fied so  to  do  by  the  Secretary  or  Visiting  Commit- 


105  R.  L.  V,  §4. 

tee.  Service  shall  be  by  regular  turn.  Provided, 
that  in  cities  or  towns  having  more  than  two 
Lodges,  the  Relief  Committees  of  the  dififerent 
Lodges  may,  if  they  see  fit,  appoint  one  of  their 
number  to  act  with  a  like  number  from  the  other 
Lodges  in  the  town  or  city  as  a  Special  Visiting 
Committee,  whose  duties  shall  be  the  care  of  travel- 
ing or  sojourning  brothers  and  sisters  who  may  be 
sick  or  disabled  in  the  town  or  city  where  such 
Lodges  are  situated.  Should  a  member  of  this  or 
any  other  Rebekah  Lodge  be  sick  or  in  distress,  it 
shall  be  the  duty  of  any  other  member  of  this  Lodge, 
knowing  the  fact,  to  report  the  case  promptly  to  the 
Visiting  Committee.  (J.  1895,  p.  205;  Rebekah  Code, 
Sec.  36;  S.J.  XIX,  p.  849.) 

540.  Rebekah  Lodges  are  now  charged  with  the  duty 
of  rendering  "attentive  benefits"  the  same  as  Subordinate 
Lodges.  (S.  J.  14241,  14487,  14570.)  But  the  Grand 
Lodge  may  provide  for  requiring  that  such  "attentive 
benefits"  shall  only  be  rendered  to,  and  by,  sisters,  leaving 
the  watching  for  and  by  brothers  to  the  Subordinate 
Lodges.     (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  36;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  849.) 

541.  The  legislation  of  1902  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  932,  954, 
969)  which  provides  that  "Grand  Bodies  may  limit  or  per- 
mit their  Subordinates  to  limit,  by  By-Laws,  the  time  for 
which  attentive  benefits  may  be  rendered,  and  to  provide 
that  watchers  and  nurses  paid  from  Lodge  funds  shall  not 
be  furnished  to  members  who  shall  be  so  much  in  arrears 
for  dues  as  to  prevent  them  from  receiving  sick  or  funeral 
benefits,"  does  not  apply  to  Rebekah  Lodges,  as  they  do 
not  pay  weekly  benefits.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  32,  284,  314.) 

542.  If  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  its  juris- 
diction, a  Rebekah  Lodge  may  provide  in  its  By-Laws  for 
hiring  a  night  watcher  or  nurse  for  a  sister  who  is  sick. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  36,  361,  371,  372.) 

544.  FINANCE  COMMITTEE.  —  Sec.  4. — 
The  Finance  Committee  shall  coiisist  of  three  mem- 
bers, to  be  appointed  by  the  Noble  Grand  on  the 


R.  L.  VI,  §1.  106 

night  of  and  immediately  after  installation.  They 
shall  audit  and  inspect  the  accounts,  books,  securi- 
ties, bonds,  funds,  and  other  properties  in  the  hands 
of  the  Treasurer,  and  the  books  and  reports  of  the 
Secretaries  and  of  other  officers  and  committees 
charged  with  the  receipt  and  expenditure  of  money. 
For  this  purpose  they  shall  fix  a  time  and  place 
to  meet  the  Secretar}-  and  Treasurer  after  the  last 
regular  meeting  in  the  term.  They  shall  also  ex- 
amine all  other  financial  matters  referred  to  them, 
and  report  thereon  to  the  Lodge  as  soon  as  prac- 
ticable. Neither  the  Noble  Grand,  the  Vice  Grand, 
the  Treasurer,  the  Secretary,  the  Financial  Secre- 
tary, nor  an}^  member  of  the  Board  of  Trustees,  shali 
be  a  member  of  the  Finance  Committee.  (J.  1895, 
p.  206;  as  amended  J.  1896,  p.  307.) 

545.  The  Noble  Grand  has  the  right  to  appoint  a 
member  of  the  Finance  Committee  pro  tempore  when  cir- 
cumstances require.     (J.  VI,  p.  165.) 

ARTICLE  VI.— ELECTIONS. 

546.  ELIGIBILITY  TO  OFFICE.— Section  1. 
— Any  member  in  good  standing  in  this  Lodge  is 
eligible  to  election  or  appointment  to  any  office  in 
this  Lodge,  except  the  offices  of  Noble  Grand  and 
Vice  Grand.  To  be  eligible  to  the  office  of  Vice 
Grand  a  member  must  have  served  a  term  in  some 
elective  or  appointive  office  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge, 
other  than  that  of  Trustee ;  and  to  be  eligible  to  the 
office  of  Noble  Grand,  a  member  must  have  served 
a  term  in  the  office  of  Vice  Grand  of  a  Rebekah 
Lodge.  But  in  case  of  a  vacancy  in  the  office  of 
Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand  in  this  Lodge,  if  all 
qualified  members  refuse  to  accept  such  vacant 
office,  the  Lodge  may  elect  any  member  thereto : 
Provided,  that  a  dispensation  for  the  purpose  be  ob- 


107 R.  L.  VI,  §1. 

tained  from  the  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  before 
any  such  officer  so  elected  can  be  installed,  or  can 
act  as  such  officer.  (J.  1901,  p.  305 ;  Rebekah  Code, 
Sec.  12.) 

547.  In  a  Rebekah  Lodge  the  chair  of  Vice  Grand 
cannot  be  (temporarily)  filled  by  appointment  of  a  mem- 
ber from  the  floor  unless  the  member  has  served  a  term 
in  some  office  other  than  Trustee.  (S.  J.  14674,  14948, 
15019;  See  §  465  and  467  sujjra.) 

548.  The  law  of  1889  (S.  J.  11744,  paragraph  14)  by 
analogy  and  principle  applies  to  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  A 
Rebekah  Lodge  may  have  six  months'  terms  if  its  By- 
Laws  so  provide,  and  may  meet  semi-monthly,  in  which 
event  thirteen  meetings  would  constitute  a  term  and  seven 
a  majority  of  nights  of  the  term.  (S.  J.  14674,  14948, 
15019.) 

549.  A  clause  in  a  Rebekah  Constitution  depriving  a 
member  six  months  in  arrears  for  dues  from  holding 
office  or  taking  part  in  Lodge  proceedings,  does  not  vio- 
late any  law  of  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  14676,  14948,  15019.) 

550.  A  member  who  has  served  in  an  elective  office, 
but  never  in  an  appointive  office,  under  Section  12  of  the 
Rebekah  Code,  is  eligible  to  elective  office.  (S.  J.  14239, 
14487,  14570;  Sec.  12  Rebekah  Code;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  844.) 

551.  A  sister  may  be  elected  from  the  floor  as  Vice 
Grand  or  Noble  Grand  if  all  qualified  members  present 
decline  the  nomination,  provided  a  dispensation  for  that 
purpose  shall  be  obtained  from  the  Lodge  Deputy  Grand 
Master.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 

552.  A  sitting  V.  G.,  unless  a  P.  V.  G.  from  previous 
service,  is  not  eligible  to  be  elected  N.  G.  to  fill  a  vacancy; 
she  must  be  a  P.  V.  G.  at  the  time  of  installation  into  the 
chair  of  N.  G.,  and  that  she  is  not  until  the  end  of  her 
term  as  Vice  Grand.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 

553.  No  failure  to  be  installed  or  to  serve  on  the  part 
of  the  Noble  Grand-elect,  or  vacation  of  office  after  she 
has  assumed  her  place,  can  entitle  a  Vice  Grand  to  the 
office,  unless  she  had  lawfully  been  elected  thereto.  Should 
a  Noble  Grand-elect  fail  to  appear  to  be  installed,  and  the 
Lodge  declare  the  office  vacated,  the  installed  Vice 
Grand-elect   could    not   be   a   candidate   for    Noble    Grand 


R.  L.  VI,  §1.  108 

unless  she  had  served  a  regular  term  as  Vice  Grand,  or 
unless  she  is  elected  to  the  ofTice  of  Noble  Grand  under 
dispensation.     (S.  J.  10254,  10487,  10511.) 

554.  Unless  an  officer  serves  to  the  end  of  the  term 
and  is  present  in  the  Lodge  room  a  majority  of  the  meet- 
ing nights  in  his  term,  when  not  excused  on  account  of 
his  own  sickness,  he  is  not  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the 
office.  (S.  J.  9371,  9456,  14681,  14682,  14948,  15019;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  504,  827,  S73;  See  §  446  suj^ra.) 

555.  There  is  no  reason  persons  akin  to  each  other, 
no  matter  how  close  the  relation,  should  not  hold  office 
at  the  same  time  in  the  same  Lodge.  (S.  J.  4992,  5194, 
5245.) 

556.  A  member  is  eligible  to  the  chair  of  Xoble 
Grand,  who,  in  consequence  of  sickness  was  unable  to  per- 
form the  duties  of  Vice  Grand  for  a  majority  of  the  nights 
of  the  term  for  which  she  was  elected,  and  who  was  ex- 
cused from  time  to  time  by  the  Lodge,  her  absence  being 
occasioned  by  a  Providential  interposition  over  which 
she  had  no  control.     (S.  J.  2309,  2345.) 

557.  But  should  the  absence  of  a  Vice  Grand  be 
voluntary,  even  though  she  have  the  leave  of  her  Lodge, 
and  such  absence  be  for  a  majority  of  the  nights,  it  will 
work  a  forfeiture  of  the  honors  of  the  office.  (S.  J. 
1886,  1949.) 

558.  Service  as  Chaplain  gives  eligibility  to  the  of- 
fice of  Vice  Grand.     (S.  J.   14169;  See  §  423,  424  supra.) 

559.  Loss,  mutilation  or  disability  of  the  right  hand 
does  not  disqualify'  a  member  for  the  office  of  Noble 
Grand.     (S.  J.  4375,  4404.) 

560.  No  one  is  eligible  as  Xoble  Grand  unless  he 
has  served  a  term  as  Vice  Grand  (filling  a  vacancy  at  the 
close  of  term  is  considered  legal  service  for  the  term,) 
nor  is  he  eligible  as  Vice  Grand  unless  he  has  served 
a  term  in  an  inferior  office,  except  in  a  new  or  revived 
Lodge.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  make  a  Third  Degree 
member  eligible  as  Noble  Grand  on  one  term's  service  in 
a  Subordinate  office;  nor  may  local  law  require  other 
service  in  an  inferior  office  as  a  qualification  for  Vice 
Grand.  (U.  S.  Digest  1847,  p.  49;  S.  J.  1067,  1080,  4370, 
4403.) 


109  R.  L.  VI,  §1. 

561.  In  case  all  qualified  members  present  on  the 
night  of  election  decline  to  be  elected  Noble  Grand  or 
Vice  Grand,  the  Lodge  may  elect  any  member  to  either 
of  said  offices  upon  procuring  a  dispensation  from  the 
proper  authority  for  that  purpose.  (S.  J.  2561,  2629; 
S.  J.  XXI,  p.  31,  284,  314.) 

This  rule  seems  to  apply  to  both,  regular  and  special  elections. 
—  (Editor.) 

563.  A  Past  Vice  Grand  of  one  Lodge  is  eligible 
to  the  office  of  Noble  Grand  in  any  other  Lodge  which 
he  may  join,  if  he  has  proof  of  such  service,  but  not 
without  such  proof.  If  an  installed  Vice  Grand  has  been 
illegally  displaced  and  for  that  reason  has  not  filled  the 
chair,  he  is  eligible  as  Noble  Grand.  (J.  Ill,  p.  161,  193, 
200;  W-252;  T-1113.) 

564.  If  a  new  Lodge  is  instituted  or  a  defunct  one 
revived  so  late  in  a  term  that  its  officers  have  not  a 
majority  of  nights'  service  before  the  beginning  of  the 
next  regular  term,  new  officers  are  not  elected  for  the 
regular  term,  but  the  old  officers  hold  over  without  elec- 
tion, as  service  for  less  than  a  majority  of  the  meetings 
in  a  term  does  not  entitle  them  to  the  honors  of  service. 
The  thirteen  weeks  or  less  with  the  ensuing  whole  term, 
make  but  one  term.  But  if  there  be  a  majority  of  nights  or 
more,  new  officers  are  chosen  at  the  regular  term,  and 
the  officers  who  have  served  receive  the  honors  of  their 
offices.     (W-238;  T-1115.) 

565.  When  a  Noble  Grand  obtains  leave  of  absence 
from  his  Lodge  for  three  months,  and  overstays  his 
time,  being  absent  for  a  majority  of  the  nights  of  his 
term,  and  his  office  is  declared  vacant  by  vote  of  the 
Lodge,  and  a  Past  Grand  elected  to  the  vacancy,  the 
Lodge  cannot  by  the  resignation  of  the  latter  and  the 
re-election  of  the  former  for  the  remainder  of  that  term 
make  him  a  Past  Grand  entitled  to  the  honors  of  a  Past 
Grand.     (S.  J.  2859,  2925,  2963.) 

566.  A  member  elected  and  serving  as  Noble  Grand 
for  five  months,  or  for  a  majority  of  nights,  and  granted 
leave  of  absence  by  his  Lodge  for  the  balance  of  his 
term,  is  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  office.  (S.  J.  8838, 
9025,  9101.) 

567.  Any  member  in  good  standing  in  the  Lodge  is 
eligible   to   election   or   appointment   to   any   office   in   his 


R.  L.  VI,  §1. 


110 


Lodge  except  the  office  of  Noble   Grand  or  Vice   Grand. 
(S.  J.   11744,   11790.) 

568.  Anj^  member  in  good  standing  may  be  elected 
as  the  first  Noble  Grand  or  Vice  Grand  of  a  new  or  re- 
vived Lodge.     (S.  J.   11744,  11790.) 

569.  The  local  law  of  a  jurisdiction  provides  that 
the  election  of  officers  in  Subordinates  shall  take  place 
four  weeks  prior  to  the  close  of  the  term,  and  that  the 
installation  shall  be  in  the  first  week  of  the  new  term. 
In  such  case  the  sitting  Vice  Grand  who  has  not  served 
a  previous  term  as  Vice  Grand  can  be  elected  Noble 
Grand,  and  if,  at  the  time  for  installation,  the  Vice 
Grand-elect  has  rendered  sufficient  service,  he  can  be 
installed  as  Noble  Grand.  (S.  J.  8211,  8337,  8440,  8533, 
8701,  8767,  4609,  4670.) 

570.  A  Vice  Grand  may,  under  dispensation,  be 
elected  to  fill  a  vacancy  in  the  office  of  Noble  Grand  if 
all  qualified  members  decline.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  505,  827, 
873.) 

571.  A  Vice  Grand  is  not  eligible  to  the  office  of 
Noble  Grand  in  case  of  his  resignation,  although  he  has 
served  a  majority  of  the  nights  of  the  term.  (S.  J. 
14681,  14948,  15019.) 

572.  A  Vice  Grand  holding  his  office  is  not  eligible 
to  election  as  Noble  Grand,  unless  all  qualified  members 
of  the  Lodge  decline,  and  a  dispensation  is  granted  by 
the  Grand  Master  (or  Lodge  Deputy.)  In  case  of  such 
illegal  election,  he  loses  the  honors  both  of  Vice  and 
Noble   Grand.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  803,  872.) 

573.  A  brother  appointed  Right  Supporter  to  the 
Vice  Grand,  and  serving  as  such  officer  through  the  en- 
tire term,  except  four  evenings,  if  not  installed,  is  not 
eligible  to  the  office  of  Vice  Grand.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  32, 
361,  371,  372.) 

574.  Holding  the  office  of  Trustee  for  a  term  is  no 
qualification  for  the  chair  of  Vice  Grand.  (S.  J.  9854, 
10105,   10176.) 

575.  A  brother  was  elected  Vice  Grand  near  the 
close  of  a  term  and  served  in  the  same  to  the  end  there- 
of, a  period  of  three  weeks.  He  was  not  elected  Noble 
Grand  for  the  succeeding  term,  but  the  brother  who  was 


Ill  R.  L.  VI,  §3. 

elected  served  until  nearly  the  close  of  that  term  and 
then  resigned,  when  the  first  mentioned  brother  was 
elected  to  the  office  of  Noble  Grand  and  served  the  re- 
mainder of  that  term.  He  was  held  eligible  to  that 
office  and  was  properly  installed  therein.  (S.  J.  6180, 
6221.) 

576.  The  law  of  1894  making  the  Chaplain  a  quali- 
ed  officer  for  Vice  Grand  is  not  retroactive,  and  applies 
only  to  those  who  serve  in  that  office  since  its  passage. 
(S.  J.  14687,  14948,  15019.) 

577.  The  election  and  installation  into  office  of  a 
member  who  was  disqualified  by  law  for  such  office,  is 
null  and  void,  and  should  be  so  declared  by  proper  au- 
thority in  the  jurisdiction,  and  the  vacancy  filled  accord- 
ing to  law.     (S.  J.  12797,  13050,  13076.) 

578.  A  brother  is  eligible  as  Noble  Grand  if  he  is  a 
Past  Vice  Grand  of  any  Rebekah  Lodge.  It  is  not  neces- 
sary that  he  should  be  Past  Vice  Grand  of  the  Lodge 
electing  him  Noble  Grand.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  279,  313.) 

579.  A  By-Law  requiring  service  for  one  term  as 
Recording  Secretary  as  a  qualification  for  Vice  Grand, 
is  illegal.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  27,  284,  314.) 

580.  NOMINATIONS,  V/HEN  MADE.— Sec. 

2. — X^ominations  for  elective  officers  shall  be 
made  at  the  regular  meeting  immediately  preceding 
that  of  the  election  ;  and,  on  the  night  of  the  election, 
nominations  for  the  office  of  Noble  Grand  shall  be 
opened ;  and,  after  the  election  of  that  officer,  nom- 
inations for  the  oft'ice  of  Vice  Grand  shall  be 
opened ;  and,  after  the  election  of  that  officer,  nom- 
inations shall  be  opened  for  each  additional  elective 
office,  in  like  manner  as  for  offices  of  Noble  Grand 
and  Vice  Grand,  just  preceding  the  respective  bal- 
lots for  the  respective  office.     (J.  1895,  p.  206.) 

58L    ELECTIONS,     V/HEN      HELD.  — Sec. 

3. — The  elective  officers  (except  the  Treasurer  and 
Financial  Secretary)  shall  be  chosen  at  the  last 
regular  meetings  in  June  and  December,  and  shall 


R.  L.  VI,  §3.  112 

hold  their  respective  offices  for  six  months,  and 
until  their  successors  shall  have  been  installed. 
They  shall  be  installed  at  the  first  meetings  in  July 
and  January.  The  Treasurer  and  the  Financial 
Secretary  (if  there  be  one)  shall  be  elected  in  De- 
cember and  shall  be  installed  at  the  first  meeting 
in  January,  and  both  shall  serve  one  year.  If  a 
public  installation  of  oft'icers  be  had,  it  may  be  at 
any  other  time  than  that  specified  above,  but  not 
prior  to  the  first  meeting  in  January  and  July.  (J. 
1895,  p.  207.) 

ELECTION: 

582.  A  Lodge  may  not  compel  a  member  to  accept 
office.  (J.  1853,  p.  dl ^  It  may  not  postpone  a  regular 
election,  nor  hold  it  at  a  special  meeting.  (J.  V,  p.  687, 
791,  792.)  It  may  not  require  candidates  to  retire  during 
an  election  ballot,  as  they  would  thereby  be  deprived  of 
their  right  to  vote  and  to  withdraw  from  the  canvass  at 
discretion.  (J.  1956,  p.  117.)  It  may  not  decide  an  elec- 
tion by  lot,  nor  make  rules  of  eligibility  to  office.  (J. 
1856,  p.  176;  J.  IV,  p.  6;  J.  VI,  p.  912,  1023.) 

583.  Re-elections  and  re-installations  should  be  had, 
though  the  officer  is  to  hold  his  office  for  another  term 
as  his  own  successor.     (J.  Ill,  p.  159,  193,  200.) 

584.  A  brother  may  decline  a  nomination.  To  do 
so,  he  must  rise,  address,  and  be  recognized  by  the  chair, 
and  state  that  he  declines.  If  he  does  not  so  decline, 
votes  cast  for  him  must  be  counted  as  cast  for  a  nominee. 
(J.  VI,  p.  29,  114,  116.)  A  brother  may  be  properly  in 
nomination  even  if  he  be  absent.     (J.  I,  302.) 

585.  If  by  inadvertance,  accident,  or  want  of  quo- 
rum an  election  is  not  held  at  the  proper  time,  the  elec- 
tion should  be  held  at  the  next  regular  meeting  of  the 
Lodge  under  the  proper  order  of  business.  (J.  V,  p.  687, 
791,  792.) 

586.  Lodges  should  elect  the  best  qualified  members 
to  office  without  regard  to  prior  holding  of  the  same 
office.     (J.  IV,  p.  459.) 


113  R.  L.  VI,  §3. 

587.  An  officer  may  be  elected  to  an  office  higher 
than  that  which  he  holds  if  eligible  thereto,  thus  vacat- 
ing the  lower  office.  A  member  may  be  elected,  but 
cannot  be  installed  while  indebted  to  the  Lodge,  but  an 
appointive  oft'icer  need  only  be  in  good  standing  when 
appointed  and  installed.     (J.  1856,  p.  21,  126,  173,  238.) 

538.  If  a  candidate  not  eligible,  be  chosen  to  office, 
the  election  is  void,  and  must  be  held  anew.  (J.  Ill, 
p.    161,   193,  200.) 

589.  If  all  Past  Noble  Grands  and  Past  Vice  Grands 
present  decline  to  be  elected  Noble  Grand,  or  being 
present  assent  to  the  selection  of  a  Noble  Grand  from 
the  floor,  a  mere  formal  election  followed  by  a  declination 
is  not  necessary.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  440,  675,  709.) 

590.  An  election  regularly  held  where  a  candidate 
is  elected  by  a  majority  of  one  vote,  may  not  be  set 
aside  at  a  subsequent  meeting  because  one  of  the  broth- 
ers who  voted  at  such  election  was  not  qualified  to  vote, 
where  there  is  no  evidence  that  he  voted  for  the  success- 
ful candidate.     (S.  J.  5920,  5950.) 

591.  A  candidate  for  office  should  not  act  as  teller 
or  judge  of  election.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 

592.  When  an  election  is  not  held  at  the  regular 
time,  it  should  be  held  at  the  next  regular  meeting,  never 
at  a  special  meeting.     (J.   1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 

593.  In  cases  of  emergency,  others  than  Past  Grands 
and  Past  Noble  Grands  may  act  at  installation  of  officers. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  540,  988,  1004.) 

594.  An  officer  installed  by  others  than  Past  Noble 
Grands  incurs  no  penalty.  The  responsibility  is  upon 
the  Special  Deputy  Grand  Master  who  violates  the  law. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  540,  988,  1004.) 

595.  An  elective  officer  should  not  be  installed  un- 
less all  dues  to  the  beginning  of  the  term  have  been  paid. 
(J.  1901,  p.  14,  270,  294.) 

INSTALLATION: 

596.  The  installation  ceremony  in  a  Lodge  must 
always  take  place  when  the  Lodge  is  open.  (S.  J.  9856, 
10105,  10176;  See  §  650  infra.) 

597.  A  Grand  Master  has  not  the  right  on  the  regu- 
lar installation  night  to  refuse  to  install  the  officers  of  a 


R.  L.  VI.  §3.  114 

Lodge  without  giving  any  reason  therefor,  as  the  law 
gives  him  power  to  arrest  the  installation  ceremony  only 
when  objections  are  raised  at  the  time.     (S.  J.  8087,  8175.) 

598.  A  District  Deputy  Grand  Sire  has  no  right  to 
refuse  to  install  the  ofificers  on  the  ground  that  at  the 
election  a  member  was  deprived  of  his  vote  on  an  erro- 
neous statement  that  he  was  in  arrears  for  dues.  The 
Lodge  has  the  power  to  decide  upon  the  qualifications 
and  rights  of  its  members  to  vote  at  elections,  and  if  the 
brother  was  denied  a  vote  it  was  his  loersonal  grievance, 
and  he  could  appeal,  but  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Sire 
could  not  for  that  reason  refuse  to  install  the  brothers 
who  were  returned  to  him  as  regularly  elected.  If  any 
candidate  was  injured  by  the  refusal  of  the  Lodge  to 
allow  a  brother  to  vote,  the  candidate  so  injured  might 
also  appeal.     (S.  J.  9868,  10106,  10177.) 

599.  It  is  one  of  the  duties  as  well  as  privileges  of 
a  Grand  Master  to  install,  or  cause  to  be  installed,  the 
officers  of  Rebekah  and  Subordinate  Lodges.  He  may 
therefor,  at  his  pleasure,  attend  and  officiate  at  such  in- 
stallation.     (S.    J.    919.) 

600.  When  visiting  for  installation  purposes,  a  Grand 
Master  may  take  the  chair  of  the  Noble  Grand,  but  when 
otherwise  visiting,  he  is  not  entitled  to  the  chair  of  right. 
(S.  J.  2403,  2481,  2503.) 

601.  Any  Past  Grand  or  Past  Noble  Grand  may 
regularly  install  the  officers  of  a  Lodge  on  the  first  meet- 
ing night  after  the  election,  unless  a  Grand  Master  or  a 
Deputy  be  present  for  that  purpose,  although  the  Lodge 
shall  fail  to  notify  the  Lodge  Deputy  of  the  election  of 
its  officers.     (S.  J.  9855,  10105,  10176.) 

602.  Past  Grands  deputized  to  install  the  officers  of 
Subordinates  are  charged  with  a  special  duty,  clearly 
prescribed  by  law,  and  are  entitled  to  all  the  respect  due 
to  the  officers  whom  they  represent,  but  they  have  no 
authority  summarily  to  deprive  the  Lodge  of  its  charter, 
nor  any  right  to  assume  the  rank  of  elective  officer,  and 
introduce  strangers  into  the  Lodge  without  card  or  pass- 
word. They,  and  such  other  members  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  as  may  assemble  to  aid  in  these  ceremonies,  are 
required  before  entering  the  ante-room  to  give  the  same 
password   that  is  demanded  of  other  brothers,  but  after 


115  R.  L.  VI,  §3. 

the  Lodge  has  been  informed  by  the  Grand  Marshall  of 
the  presence  in  the  ante-room  of  the  installing  officers, 
no  password  should  be  required  of  them  at  the  inner 
door.     (S.  J.  1840,  1897,  1952.) 

603.  When  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters  visit 
Rebekah  Lodges  for  the  purpose  of  installing  officers 
elected,  or  upon  other  official  duty,  then,  as  the  Repre- 
sentative of  the  Grand  Master,  he  should  be  accorded 
the  same  honors  as  are  given  to  that  officer.  All  pro- 
visions inconsistent  with  the  foregoing  legislation  have 
been  repealed.     (S.  J.  XXH,  p.  671,  731,  761.) 

604.  At  the  installation  of  officers  of  a  Lodge,  it  is 
sometimes  necessary  to  use  members  who  are  not  Past 
Grands  or  Past  Noble  Grands  in  order  to  fill  all  the 
chairs,  though  it  is  technically  wrong;  for  an  office  can- 
not be  properly  filled  by  representation,  except  by  a 
person  qualified  to  hold  office  himself;  and  since  tbe 
officers  of  a  Grand  Lodge  must  be  Past  Grands  in  order 
to  be  members  of  a  Grand  Lodge,  a  Past  Grand  is  the 
only  fitting  representative  of  a  Grand  Lodge  officer. 
However,  the  charges  are  laid  down  in  such  a  way  as  to 
place  the  Treasurer  before  the  Financial  Secretary,  but 
said  charges  are  held  to  be  secondary  to  the  obligations 
and  ceremonial  form  of  installation,  and  it  is  proper  to 
install  the  Treasurer  of  a  Subordinate  Lodge  or  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge  after  the  Secretaries  of  said  Lodges  are 
installed.      (S.  J.    11484,   11728,   11786.) 

605.  A  Lodge  Deputy  temporarily  absenting  himself 
from  his  jurisdiction  has  authority  to  appoint  a  qualified 
member  to  install  the  officers  of  his  Lodge  during  his 
necessary  absence,  but  if  the  officers  of  the  Lodge  should 
be  regularly  installed  by  any  qualified  member  who  had 
not  been  thus  appointed  by  the  Lodge  Deputy,  such  in- 
stallation would  be  legal  and  valid.  Installations  can 
legally  be  made  by  others  than  the  Lodge  Deputy,  and 
no  legal  installation  can  be  vitiated.  If  a  brother,  deputed 
to  install  officers,  should  fail  to  attend,  the  ceremony, 
rather  than  be  deferred,  should  be  performed  by  a  quali- 
fied member  in  attendance.  If  a  member  deputed  should 
present  himself,  and  his  authority  be  disregarded  by  a 
Lodge,    then    the    Deputy    has    his    remedy    in    arraigning 


R.  L.  VI,  §3.  116 

the  Lodge  for  misconduct.     (S.  J.   1992,  2114,  2170,  2180; 
See  §  628,  629,  630  infra.) 

606.  Where  a  Lodge  Deputy  failed  to  attend  the 
installation  of  officers  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  after  notice, 
whereupon  the  Senior  Past  Noble  Grand  directed  a  Past 
Noble  Grand  to  act  as  installing  officer,  and  upon  report 
of  same  to  the  Grand  Master  he  sent  to  said  installing 
officer  the  key  to  the  password  and  a  blank  receipt. 
Seld,  that  the  officers  of  the  Lodge  were  legally  installed, 
and  the  Grand  Master's  act  in  sending  the  key  and  cipher 
was  an  effectual  ratification  of  the  same,  which  he  could 
not  thereafter  recall.     (S.  J.   15969,  15994.) 

607.  If,  under  the  law  authorizing  public  installation, 
any  controversy  arise  between  an  elective  Grand  Officer 
and  a  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  as  to  which  shall 
conduct  such  installation,  the  elective  Grand  Officer,  be- 
ing superior  in  rank,  shall  have  precedence.  (S.  J.  3031, 
3083,  3113.) 

608.  It  is  not  the  power  of  a  District  Deputy  Grand 
Sire,  or  even  the  Grand  Sire,  to  appoint  any  one  but  a 
Past  Chief  Patriarch  to  install  officers  of  an  Encamp- 
ment. The  principal  seems  to  be  that  no  one  should  be 
appointed  to  administer  an  obligation  who  has  never  re- 
ceived it.     (S.  J.  10715,  10951,  11005;  See  §  6Z^  infra.) 

609.  Installation  should  be  deferred  if  only  one 
qualified  installing  officer  be  present.  If  two  be  present 
the  installation  should  proceed.    (S.  J.  11903,  12213,  12280.) 

610.  Officers-elect  having  been  examined  in  the 
ante-room,  when  they  enter  for  installation  do  not  ad- 
dress the  chairs.     (S.  J.  4992,  5185,  5222.) 

6n.  When  the  officers  at  installation  retire  in  charge 
of  the  Grand  Marshal  for  examination,  they  should  retire 
in  form,  that  is,  address  the  chairs.  (S.  J.  10716,  10951, 
11005.) 

612.  A  member  of  the  Patriarchs  Militant  has  no 
right  to  wear  the  uniform  while  installing  the  officers  of 
a  Lodge,  either  in  connection  with  the  Past  Grand's  re- 
galia or  without  it.  Being  the  representative  of  the  Grand 
Master,  he  must  wear  the  regalia  of  that  office,  and  that 
alone.  The  Grand  Master  and  his  Deputy  are,  so  to 
speak,  civic  officers,  and  when  performing  the  functions 


117  R.  L.  VI,  §3. 

of  that  oflfice  should  be  clothed  in  the  regalia  appropriate 
to  those  functions.  (S.  J.  11095,  11405.)  This  has  not 
been  repealed  by  Section  131  of  the  Patriarchs'  Militant 
Code,  and  at  the  installation  of  Lodge  officers  the  Patri- 
archs' Militant  uniform  cannot  be  worn.  (S.  J.  14248, 
14487,  14570.) 

613.  A  committee  was  appointed  under  the  local 
law  preparatory  to  bringing  charges  against  a  brother. 
Before  the  committee  reported  he  was  elected  and  in- 
stalled into  office.  Held,  that  his  election  and  installation 
were  legal  and  proper,  and  even  though  charges  had  been 
preferred  against  him,  the  installing  officer  had  no  right 
to  refuse  to  install.  Free  from  charges  does  not  mean 
free  from  charges  of  misconduct.  (S.  J.  9629,  9705;  See 
§  622,  634,  639  infra.) 

614.  An  officer  elected  cannot  be  installed  in  office 
by  proxy.     (S.  J.  4240,  4374,  4404,  4414,  4430.) 

615.  Should  an  insufficient  reason  be  given  to  the 
installing  oificer  for  the  non-attendance  of  an  officer- 
elect  upon  installation  night,  the  installing  officer  may 
require  the  Lodge  immediately  to  elect  another  to  fill 
such  office.     (S.  J.  2215,  2264,  2327,   10254,   10487,   10511.) 

616.  A  Noble  Grand-elect  having  failed  to  appear 
for  installation  and  forfeited  (under  the  local  law)  her 
office,  the  member  elected  and  installed  in  her  place  is 
the  Noble  Grand  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  2403,  2481,  2503.) 

617.  Where  a  new  election  is  ordered  by  the  Grand 
Master  at  an  installation,  it  is  his  duty  to  conduct  such 
election,  and  neither  the  Noble  Grand  nor  anyone  else 
has  a  right  to  attempt  to  put  a  question  to  the  Lodge 
while  the  Grand  Master  or  his  Deputy  is  conducting  such 
election  or  installing  the  officers.  Any  member  of  the 
Lodge  may  vote  at  such  election,  although  a  Grand  Offi- 
cer, or  acting  as  such,  and  colthed  in  his  official  regalia. 
(S.  J.  4842,  4870.) 

618.  The  officers  of  Lodges  shall  not  be  installed, 
nor  furnished  with  the  semi-annual  password,  unless  the 
reports,  returns,  and  moneys  due  from  such  Lodges  to 
their  respective  superior  jurisdictions  be  actually  made 
and  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  proper  officer,  or  be  ac- 
tually in  transit  to  the  proper  destination.  (S.  J.  2643, 
2667.) 


R.  L.  VI,  §3.  118 

619.  The  reports  to  the  Grand  Lodge  must  be  ac- 
cepted by  the  installing  officer  as  sufficient  if  the  Lodge 
has  accepted  them.     (J.  1854,  p.  45.) 

620.  A  Grand  Encampment  may  provide  that  the 
officers  of  Subordinates  cannot  be  installed  until  the  dues 
of  such  Subordinates  are  paid.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  511,  827, 
873.) 

Doubtless  a  Grand  Lodge  may  make  the  same  provision  re- 
garding the  dues  of  its   Subordinates. —  (Editor.) 

622.  An  officer-elect,  being  in  good  standing,  is 
eligible  for  installation.  It  is  immaterial  that  he  become 
in  arrears  in  a  few  days.  (S.  J.  15801,  16071,  16116;  See 
§  613  supra.) 

623.  An  appeal  affecting  the  eligibility  of  an  officer- 
elect  being  taken  from  a  decision  in  his  favor,  he  can  be 
installed  while  the  appeal  is  pending.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  780, 
855,  875;  See  §  640  infra.) 

6124.  A  re-elected  officer  is  subject  to  the  same  cere- 
mony of  installation  as  when  first  elected  and  installed. 
(S.  J.  11892,  12217,  12281.) 

625.  A  Lodge  may  not  use  any  forms  for  installa- 
tion other  than  those  prescribed  by  the  S.  G.  L.  (Sov. 
By-Laws,  Art.  XX,  p.  44,  361,  371,  372.) 

626.  A  Lodge  may  have  public  installation  of  offi- 
cers without  a  special  dispensation  from  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter, but  must  use  the  public  ceremony  found  in  the  book 
of  forms,  never  using  the  forms  found  in  the  Ritual  in 
public.     (J.   1901,  p.   12,  319.) 

627.  If  the  office  is  elective,  an  obligation  is  part  of 
the  ceremony;  in  appointive  offices,  there  is  only  a  plac- 
ing and  a  charge.  Installation  is  necessary  to  the  hold- 
ing of  an  office;  election  and  even  assumption  of  the 
duties  of  an  office  do  not  make  one  a  legal  officer  without 
installation,  and  no  honors  of  office  accrue  to  one  not 
installed.     (W-334;   T-1197.) 

628.  The  Grand  Master  must  provide  for  installing 
officers  of  Lodges  by  himself  or  Deputy;  but  if  at  the 
regular  time  the  Grand  Master  or  his  Deputy  is  not 
present  and  has  not  provided  for  installation  at  some 
other  time,  or  by  some  deputed  Past  Grand  or  Past 
Noble  Grand,  any  Past  Grand  or  Past  Noble  Grand  may 
perform  the  installation;  but  if  all  Past  Grands  and  Past 


119  R.  L.  VI,  §3. 

Noble  Grands  are  absent,  the  Noble  Grand  may  perform 
installation.     (S.  J.  919,   1246.) 

629.  The  Grand  Master  must  see  that  the  officers 
of  a  Lodge  are  installed.  If  the  Lodge  has  no  notice 
of  his  intention  to  officiate,  and  he  has  not  appointed 
a  Deputy  for  that  purpose,  any  qualified  member  may 
install,  and  the  installation  is  legal.  (W-335a;  S.  J.  9855; 
10148,  10188.) 

630.  The  obligation  at  installation  can  only  be  ad- 
ministered by  those  upon  whom  they  have  been  con- 
ferred.    (S.  J.  1085,  1120.) 

631.  A  Deputy  may  cause  the  installation  to  be  per- 
formed by  a  Past  Grand  or  Past  Noble  Grand  to  whom 
he  gives  written  authority  to  be  presented  to  the  Lodge. 
If  the  installation  is  performed  by  a  Past  Grand  or  Past 
Noble  Grand  not  thus  deputed,  preference  must  be  given 
to  a  Past  Grand  officer,  or  by  rank  and  seniority.  (J.  Ill, 
p.  486,  515.) 

632.  In  the  case  of  a  vacancy  occurring  in  any  office 
after  the  regular  period  of  installation,  it  is  not  necessary 
to  procure  special  authority  from  the  Grand  Master  or  his 
Deputy  to  install  a  successor;  that  duty  may  be  performed 
by  the  Noble  Grand  or  a  Past  Grand.  (J.  1855,  p.  25, 
26,  126.) 

633.  The  Treasurer  and  Financial  Secretary,  if  there 
be  one,  shall  be  installed  at  the  first  meeting  in  January. 
If  a  public  installation  of  officers  is  had,  it  may  be  at  any 
other  time  than  that  specified  above,  but  not  prior  to  the 
first  meeting  in  January.  It  is  not  legal  to  hold  an  in- 
stallation earlier  than  the  first  regular  meeting  of  the 
term.  (J.  1855,  p.  24;  J.  1856,  p.  113;  Rebekah  Const., 
Art.  VI,  Sec.  3;  See  §  581  supra.) 

634.  The  installing  officer  must  see  that  the  brothers 
installed  as  officers  are  duly  qualified;  namely,  free  from 
dues,  if  elected  officers;  qualified  in  the  degree,  and  by 
previous  service  when  these  are  required,  and  that  each 
officer  has  complied  with  the  law  as  to  acquaintance  with 
the  work  and  his  charges.  But  in  case  of  an  election 
held  in  an  emergency,  or  to  fill  a  vacancy  occurring  at 
the  time  of  installation,  the  installing  officer  must  not 
insist  upon  knowledge  of  the  charges  .  (J.  VI,  p.  912; 
J.  Vn,  p.  116.) 


R.  L.  VI,  §3.        .  120 

635.  If  an  ofificer-elcct,  on  installation  night,  refuses 
to  retire  to  the  ante-room  for  examination,  or  refuses  to 
return  to  the  Lodge  room  to  be  installed  when  required 
to  do  so  by  the  Grand  Marshal,  or  if  an  officer-elect  re- 
signs on  the  evening  of  installation,  the  installing  officer 
must  declare  the  oflfice  vacant  and  hold  a  new  election. 
(J.  I,  p.  174;  J.  Ill,  p.  161,  193,  200.) 

636.  The  Noble  Grand  must  give  up  his  chair  on  de- 
mand of  the  installing  oflficer,  even  if  re-elected,  since  he 
must  be  reinstalled.  An  oflficer  refusing  to  give  up  his 
station  on  such  demand  is  liable  to  penalty.  (J.  Ill, 
p.  486,  515.) 

637.  The  Lodge  is  in  charge  of  the  installing  oflficer 
from  the  moment  when  he  directs  the  vacation  of  the 
chair  till  the  Grand  Marshal's  final  proclamation.  During 
this  time  the  Noble  Grand  has  no  right  to  put  a  question 
to  the  Lodge  or  to  interfere  with  the  proceedings  of  the 
installing  officer.  To  do  so  is  insubordination.  That 
officer  takes  the  Noble  Grand's  chair.  (S.  J.  2403,  4240, 
4843,  4870.) 

638.  If  a  Treasurer-elect  is  presented  for  installation 
before  his  bond  has  been  legally  executed  and  approved, 
the  installing  officer  may  cause  the  bond  to  be  perfected 
and  approved  forthwith,  or  may  postpone  the  installation, 
or  may  declare  the  office  vacant  and  hold  a  new  election 
immediately.     (J.  IV,  p.  53;  J.  VI,  p.  1026.) 

639.  In  case  of  objection  interposed  during  installa- 
tion, the  installing  officer  proceeds  as  directed  in  the 
Ritual;  but  a  qualified  and  duly  elected  member  is  to  be 
installed,  unless  charges  are  preferred,  though  some  one 
or  more  say  they  are  not  content.  In  case  of  doubt  as  to 
eligibility,  the  Lodge  must  furnish  the  facts  of  record  to 
the  installing  officer.  An  appeal  and  charges  of  miscon- 
duct do  not  stay  installation.  (S.  J.  5282,  9630,  9691,  9705; 
See  §  613,  622,  634  supra.) 

640.  When  the  eligibility  of  a  candidate  is  called  in 
question  and  an  appeal  thereon  is  taken,  the  installation 
goes  on.     (S.  J.  5282,  5460,  5475,  5520,  5841,  5919,  5950.) 

641.  When  a  Deputy  has  refused  to  install  a  brother 
said  to  have  been  elected,  because  he  doubts  the  legality 
of    his    election,    the    Lodge    may    not    call    another    Past 


121  R.  L.  VI,  §3. 

Grand  to  install  the  rejected  brother;  any  such  installation 
is  illegal  and  void.     (S.  J.  6351.) 

642.  No  dispensation  may  be  granted  by  the  in- 
stalling officer,  unless  he  is  the  Grand  Master  or  Lodge 
Deputy  Grand  Master.  He  must  limit  himself  to  the 
definite  duties  of  the  installation.  He  may  take  a  vote 
of  the  Lodge  on  any  question  incidental  to  the  installa- 
tion, as  the  election  of  an  officer,  the  approval  of  a  bond, 
etc.     (J.  IV,  p.  9;  J.  1857,  p.  191;  J.  VI,  p.  1026.) 

643.  No  installing  officer  is  entitled  to  compensation 
for  installing  in  his  own  Lodge  or  town.     (J.  I,  p.   178.) 

644.  The  forms  and  ceremonies  for  the  public  in- 
stallation of  officers,  as  prepared  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  or  ac- 
cepted and  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois;  and 
the  Lodges  of  this  jurisdiction  are  authorized,  at  their 
option,  to  make  public  all  installations  of  officers  in  their 
several  Lodges,  in  strict  conformity  with  the  requirements 
of  such  forms  and  ceremonies.  The  Grand  Lodge  of 
Illinois  suggests  to  Lodges  to  hold  one  installation  each 
year  in  public  as  a  means  of  influence  beneficial  to  the 
Order.     (J.  Ill,  p.  93;  J.  V,  p.  39.) 

645.  When  the  Vice  Grand  is  authorized  to  appoint 
his  own  supporters,  the  Noble  Grand  cannot  prevent 
their  installation  on  the  ground  that  they  are  not  accept- 
able to  him.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24,  365,  394.) 

PUBLIC  INSTALLATION: 

646.  Several  Lodges  may  hold  a  joint  public  instal- 
lation on  some  convenient  night  after  the  beginning  of  a 
term  or  upon  the  first  regular  meeting  night  (of  some 
one  or  more  of  the  Lodges)  of  the  term.  The  form  for 
public  installation  must  be  used,  and  while  it  may  be 
preceded  or  followed  by  a  program  containing  music  and 
other  features  that  may  be  deemed  appropriate  and  enter- 
taining, these  additional  features  should  not  be  inter- 
jected between  the  parts  of  the  form  of  the  public  in- 
stallation so  as  to  mar  its  entirety.  Such  installation 
must  be  conducted  in  every  respect  according  to  the  regu- 
lations and  decisions  of  the  S.  G.  L.  on  that  subject,  as 
found  in  Sections  1424  to  1431,  inclusive,  of  Busbee's 
Digest.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  19,  20,  220,  243.) 


R.  L.  VI,  §3.  122 

647.  Grand  Bodies  are  hereby  authorized  to  confer 
upon  Subordinate  Lodges  and  Rebekah  Lodges  the  right 
to  install  the  officers  in  public:  Provided,  the  ceremony 
be  conducted  by  an  officer  of  such  Grand  Body,  by  a 
District  Deputy  Grand  Master,  or  by  a  Past  Grand  or 
Past  Noble  Grand,  duly  authorized  by  the  Grand  ]\Iaster: 
Provided,  they  use  the  form  prescribed  by  the  S.  G.  L. 
(S.  J.  2806,  2829,  2971,  14120,  14150,  14480,  14513.) 

648.  Public  installations  cannot  be  held  unless  the 
Grand  Body  has  given  consent  to  its  Subordinates  to  have 
the  same;  and  where  the  Grand  Master  of  the  jurisdiction 
has  forbidden  the  same,  the  Grand  Sire  has  no  power 
to  interfere  with  his  decision.  The  decision  of  the  Grand 
Master  is  binding  until  reversed  by  his  Grand  Lodge, 
unless  his  decision  is  in  direct  conflict  with  the  Cons*:itu- 
tion  and  Laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  4069,  4187,  4201.) 

649.  There  is  no  (general)  law  against  installing 
officers  of  Lodges  in  any  suitable  hall  outside  of  the 
Lodge  room:  Provided,  the  form  of  public  installation 
is  used.  (S.  J.  4992,  5185,  5222.)  Public  installations  may 
be  held  in  other  than  the  regular  Lodge  room,  and  may 
be  joint  installations  if  the  Lodges  are  legally  convened. 
(S.  J.  14250,  14487,  14570.)  Joint  public  installations  may 
be  held:  Provided,  the  law  as  expressed  in  the  preceding 
section  be  fully  complied  with.     (S.  J.  12216,  12281.) 

650.  A  Lodge  should  not  "close  in  regular  form" 
before  a  public  installation,  but  "the  ordinary  ceremonies 
being  suspended,"  the  doors  are  opened  and  the  installa- 
tion proceeds.  After  its  completion  the  Grand  Officers 
retire,  and  then,  all  but  the  members  of  the  Order  being 
excluded,  the  Lodge  closes  in  form.  If  the  installation 
takes  place  at  a  room  other  than  the  Lodge  room,  there 
is  no  objection  to  declare  a  recess,  and  then  proceeding 
to  the  hall  in  which  the  ceremony  is  to  take  place,  after 
which  the  Lodge  should  return  to  its  Lodge  room  and 
close  in  form.  (See  Form  Public  Installation.)  If,  how- 
ever, a  Lodge  should  close  before  the  installation,  and 
then  proceed  to  install  the  officers,  such  installation, 
though  irregular,  would  not  be  void,  and  the  installed 
officers  would  be  the  legal  officers  of  the  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
6963,  6973.) 


123  R.  L.  VI,  §4. 

651.  ELECTION,     HOW     CONDUCTED.— 

Sec.  4. — The  election  of  officers  shall  be  by  bal- 
lot, except  in  cases  where  there  is  but  one  candidate 
for  an  office,  when  the  election  may  be  by  ac- 
clamation. A  majority  of  all  votes  cast  shall  be 
necessary  to  election.  Ballots  for  persons  not 
properly  in  nomination  shall  be  considered  blanks, 
and  blanks  shall  be  counted  as  votes.  When  there 
are  several  candidates  and  there  is  no  choice,  at 
each  successive  balloting  the  name  of  the  candidate 
having  the  smallest  number  of  votes  in  the  pre- 
ceding ballot  shall  be  dropped  from  the  nomination. 
(J.  1895,  p.  207.) 

652.  It  is  proper  to  provide  by  By-Law  that  at  the 
election  of  officers  the  Warden  shall  distribute  and  collect 
the  ballots.  It  is  not  necessary  that  the  ballot  box  shall 
be  in  the  center  of  the  hall.     (S.  J.  9736,  9802.) 

653.  Upon  each  ballot  the  Secretary  should  announce 
to  the  Lodge  the  names  of  the  several  candidates  then 
legally  in  nomination.     (J.  VI,  p.  29,  114,  116.) 

654.  In  case  of  a  tie  vote  in  election,  the  Lodge  has 
failed  to  elect.  The  Noble  Grand  should  then  call  for 
nomination  for  office,  and,  when  nominations  have  again 
been  made,  order  another  ballot.     (J.  VI,  p.  912,  1023.) 

655.  For  election  by  acclamation  the  motion  should 
be    that    Brother   A B 

be  elected  by  acclamation.  The  Lodge  would  then  vote 
by  the  voting  sign,  and  if  the  motion  prevails  the  brother 
is  thereby  elected  without  further  vote.  (J.  1856,  p.  21, 
126.) 

656.  Where  the  Constitution  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
requires  a  majority  of  all  votes  cast  to  elect  one  to  the 
office  of  Vice  Grand,  and  at  an  election  held  thereafter, 
twelve  votes  were  cast  for  A,  who  was  not  eligible, 
and  ten  votes  were  cast  for  B,  who  was  eligible,  neither 
A  nor  B  was  elected.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  442,  675,  709.) 

657.  Where  the  Constitution  of  a  Lodge  provides 
that  "All  elections  of  officers  shall  be  by  ballot  and  a 
majority  vote  of  all  the  ballots  cast  shall  be  necessary  to 


R.  L.  VI,  §4.  124 

elect,"  ballots  cast  in  blank  or  cast  for  a  member  not 
properly  in  nomination  are  to  be  counted  to  determine 
the  question  of  whether  or  not  a  candidate  has  received 
a  majority  of  all  the  votes  cast.  And  where  in  a  ballot 
of  seventeen  votes  cast,  six  of  which  were  for  a  candidate 
properly  in  nomination  and  eleven  were  blank,  there  is 
no  election.  Also  in  a  ballot  where  twenty  votes  are  cast, 
seven  of  which  being  cast  for  a  brother  properly  in  nom- 
ination and  thirteen  being  cast  for  a  brother  who  is  not 
properly  in  nomination,  there  is  no  election.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  428,  675,  709.) 

658.  The  election  and  installation  of  officers,  held 
and  performed  by  the  Lodge  during  a  period  while  it  is 
under  expulsion  or  suspension,  is  illegal  and  void.  Offi- 
cers whose  terms  of  office  expire  during  such  term  are 
not  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  several  offices  which 
they  have  filled  during  such  suspension  or  expulsion. 
When  the  Lodge  is  resuscitated,  they  resume  their  several 
offices  without  regard  to  the  duration  of  the  period  of 
suspension.     (S.  J.  1391,  1494.) 

659.  An  election  was  held  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge 
for  a  Representative  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  two  can- 
didates of  the  same  surname  were  in  nomination,  and 
votes  were  cast  for  one  of  these  candidates,  without  nam- 
ing which  one.  Before  any  decision  as  to  the  result  is 
made,  but  after  the  tellers  had  announced  the  vote,  a 
motion  was  made  and  seconded  that  the  vote  be  retaken, 
which  motion  prevailed.  Held,  such  action  was  illegal. 
Held,  that  after  the  tellers  had  announced  the  vote,  it  was 
the  duty  of  the  presiding  officer  to  have  declared  the  re- 
sult of  such  election.  Held,  that  no  motion  should  have 
been  received  or  was  in  order  until  said  result  was  de- 
clared.    (S.  J.  3683,  3698.) 

660.  An  officer  was  declared  elected  by  a  majority 
of  one  vote.  On  the  next  night  the  Lodge  held  the  elec- 
tion void,  on  the  ground  that  one  member  voted  who 
was  disqualified,  but  it  did  not  appear  for  whom  he  had 
voted,  and  then  proceeded  and  elected  another  candidate 
by  a  majority  of  four  votes.  Held,  that  the  second  elec- 
tion was  illegal  and  the  first  person  elected  was  entitled 
to  the  office.     (S.  J.  5920,  5950.) 


125 R.  L.  VI,  §4. 

661.  Where  the  Constitution  and  By-Laws  of  a 
Lodge  provide  that  "On  the  second  ballot  the  poll  shall 
be  between  the  two  candidates  who  have  received  the 
highest  number  of  votes  on  the  first  ballot,"  or  that  "The 
candidate  having  the  smallest  number  of  votes  shall  be 
dropped  in  the  next  ballot,"  all  the  votes  cast  for  candi- 
dates other  than  those  remaining  in  the  ballot,  under  the 
provisions  of  the  law,  are  void  and  must  be  excluded 
from  the  poll.     (S.  J.  2928,  2964,  3121,  3135,  11244,  11310.) 

662.  Officers  have  such  powers  and  perform  such 
duties  as  are  assigned  them  by  their  charges,  by  general 
laws  and  by  the  Constitution  and  By-Laws  of  their 
Lodges.     (U.  S.  Digest,  1847,  p.  49.) 

663.  A  provision  in  a  Constitution  for  Subordinates 
that  where  there  is  only  one  candidate  in  nomination  he 
may  be  elected  by  acclamation,  is  not  in  conflict  with  the 
general  law.     (S.  J.  15749,  16030,  16054.) 

664.  The  local  law  governing  elections  in  Subordin- 
ates provides  that  "No  vote  shall  be  counted  or  con- 
sidered in  any  ballot  unless  it  be  for  a  candidate  who  is 
in  nomination."  Two  candidates  were  in  nomination; 
one  received  fourteen  and  the  other  fifteen  votes,  and  one 
ballot  had  on  it  the  names  of  both  candidates.  Held,  that 
the  one  receiving  fifteen  votes  was  elected,  as  the  vote 
having  both  names  on  it  was  not  a  vote  for  a  candidate 
in  nomination.     (S.  J.  13985,  14065.) 

665.  A  provision  in  the  By-Laws  of  a  Subordinate 
Encampment,  viz:  "Nor  can  any  brother  be  balloted  for, 
except  he  has  been  regularly  nominated  and  be  present 
at  the  time  of  election,  or  notify  the  Encampment  of  his 
acceptance  of  the  nomination,"  adds  a  new  qualification 
for  office,  and  is  therefore  not  permissible.  (S.  J.  XX,  p. 
391,  413.) 

The  above  is  doubtless  applicable  to  Rebekah  Lodges. — (Editor.) 

666.  If  the  Noble  Grand  votes  for  officers,  he  can- 
not, in  case  a  tie,  vote  again  to  break  the  tie.  His  right 
to  give  the  casting  vote  in  case  of  a  tie  applies  to  legis- 
lative questions  only.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  506,  827,  873.) 

667.  Right  to  vote  a  secret  ballot  applies  to  a  poll 
for  the  election  of  officers  and  Representatives  when 
written  ballots  are  used.     (S.  J.  15757,  16071,  16116.) 


R.  L.  VI,  §5.  126 

668.  A  brother  endeavoring  to  ascertain  names  of 
those  voting  for  officers  where  written  ballots  are  used, 
is  not  guilty  of  ofifense  under  the  law.  It  is  otherwise 
with  respect  to  balloting  on  candidates  for  admission. 
(S.  J.  15757,  16071,  16116.) 

669.  When  an  election  of  officers  is  contested,  the 
several  members  voting  can  legally  be  examined  as  to 
how  they  voted,  by  a  committee  appointed  for  that  pur- 
pose by  the  body  in  which  the  election  took  place,  or  by 
any  other  agency  created  by  such  body.  (S.  J.  15757, 
16071,  16116.) 

670.  In  order  to  vitiate  an  election,  the  proof  as  to 
the  illegality  of  the  vote,  and  that  it  effected  the  result, 
must  be  positive.  A  mere  assertion  to  that  effect  is  in- 
sufficient.    (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  279,  313.) 

671.  Unless  prohibited  by  local  law,  it  is  permissible 
for  a  brother  to  ask  another  in  the  Lodge  room  to  vote 
for  a  certain  nominee.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  537,  979,  1002.) 

672.  A  "plurality"  means  that  where  three  or  more 
candidates  are  being  voted  for  that  the  candidate  re- 
ceiving the  highest  numbers  of  the  votes  cast,  or  the 
highest  number  of  all  the  votes  cast,  is  entitled  to  the 
election,  while  a  "majority"  means  that  the  candidate 
must  receive  a  majority  of  all  the  votes  cast  or  a  ma- 
jority of  the  votes  cast  before  he  can  be  elected.  (S.  J. 
XX,  p.  551,  988,  1004.) 

673.  Whether  the  Noble  Grand  can  compel  a  brother 
to  enter  the  Lodge  room  from  the  ante-room  for  the  pur- 
pose of  voting  depends  on  the  local  law.  (S.  J.  XXI, 
p.  27,  285,  314.) 

674.  OFFICE  VACATED,  V>^  HEN.  —  Sec. 
5. — If  any  officer  shall  be  absent  for  three  succes- 
sive meetings,  except  for  sickness  or  unavoidable 
absence,  the  office  shall  be  declared  vacant  by  a 
vote  of  the  Lodge,  if  an  elective  officer,  but  by  the 
officer  who  appointed,  if  an  appointive  officer.  All 
vacancies  shall  be  filled  in  the  manner  of  the  former 
selection  to  serve  the  residue  of  the  term.  (J.  1895, 
p.  207.) 


127  R.  L.  VI,  §7. 

675.  A  Lodge  has  no  right  to  declare  an  office  va- 
cant on  account  of  the  absence  of  the  incumbent  until 
after  the  third  consecutive  absence,  to-wit:  on  the  fourth 
absence.  If  the  Lodge  does  not  remove  the  officer 
promptly,  but  allows  him  to  resume  the  duties  of  his 
station,  it  cannot  afterwards  call  up  the  case  and  remove 
him.  If  an  officer  takes  a  visiting  card  and  avowedly  de- 
parts for  a  long  period  of  time  without  resigning  his 
office,  the  Lodge  may  immediately  vacate  his  chair  and 
proceed  to  fill  it.     (J.  1856,  p.  59,  129,  130;  J.  1854,  p.  45.) 

676.  By  voluntarily  withdrawing  from  the  duties  of 
a  station,  an  officer  forfeits  the  honors  thereof,  and  the 
successor  who  fulfills  the  duties  for  the  unexpired  term 
becomes  entitled  to  said  honors.     (S.  J.  1244,  5834,  5877.) 

677.  CHARGES    M  E  M  O  R  I  Z  E  D.— Sec.  6. 

— All  elective  officers  shall  commit  their  charges 
to  memory  before  they  are  installed  in  office,  and 
all  appointive  officers  shall  commit  their  charges 
within  one  month  after  installation.  (J.  1895,  p. 
207.) 

678.  LODGE  DEPUT  Y.— Sec.  7.— This 
Lodge  shall,  at  its  first  meeting  in  December,  or  at 
the  first  meeting  thereafter,  by  election  duly  had, 
recommend  a  Past  Nobl(e)  Grand,  who  shall  be  a 
member  of  this  Lodge,  or  in  case  there  is  no  Past 
Noble  Grand,  a  Past  Grand  of  a  Subordinate  Lodge, 
who  is  also  a  member  of  this  Lodge,  to  be  ap- 
pointed by  the  Grand  Master  to  be  his  Deputy  for 
this  Lodge.  (J.  1895,  p.  207;  See  §  682,  683  infm.) 
GENERALLY: 

679.  Tlie  Grand  Master  shall  appoint  a  duly  qualified 
Past  Grand  as  the  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  for  each 
Subordinate  Lodge,  and  a  duly  qualified  Past  Noble  Grand 
or  Past  Grand  as  the  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  for 
each  Rebekah  Lodge,  who  shall  serve  as  such  until  a 
successor  shall  have  been  appointed,  or  until  removed 
by  the  Grand  Master.  The  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master 
shall  obey  the  commands  of  the  Grand  Master,  decide  all 
questions   of  law   and  usage,   when    submitted   in   writing 


R.  L.  VI,  §7.  128 

under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  giving  the  answer  thereto 
also  in  writing.  Said  decision  of  the  Lodge  Deputy  Grand 
Master  shall  be  binding  upon  the  Lodge  unless  an  appeal 
is  taken  to  the  Grand  Master,  in  which  case  the  Lodge 
Deputy  Grand  Master  shall  transmit  the  original  papers 
(being  the  question  and  answer)  to  the  Grand  Master. 
The  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Masters  shall  perform  such 
other  duties  as  may  be  prescribed  for  them  by  the  laws 
of  the  Order.  (Grand  Lodge  Const.,  Sec.  1,  Art.  V; 
J.  1905,  p.  277;  J.  1906,  p.  184,  185,  341.) 

680.  Section  7,  of  Article  VI,  of  the  Rebekah  Con- 
stitution, is  directory  and  not  mandatory  upon  the  Grand 
Master.     (J.  IX,  p.  889,  1027.) 

681.  Grand  Masters  of  the  various  State  Jurisdic- 
tions in  which  Rebekah  Lodges  exist  are  authorized  to 
appoint  deputies  from  among  the  lady  Past  Noble  Grands 
of  such  Lodges  to  exercise  the  duties  of  installation,  and 
such  other  duties  in  said  Lodge  as  their  office  empowers 
them  to  do.  Installing  officers  of  Rebekah  Lodges  are 
authorized  to  fill  the  various  positions  in  the  installation 
of  officers  of  such  Lodges  with  Lady  Past  Noble  Grands. 
(S.  J.  10982,  11026.)  This  law  is  a  general  law,  and  takes 
effect  January  first  after  its  passage.  (S.  J.  11094,  11364, 
11395.) 

682.  A  District  Deputy  for  Rebekah  Lodges,  if  a 
Past  Grand  and  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  in  good 
standing,  need  not  be  a  Past  Noble  Grand.  (S.  J.  14712, 
14948,  15019.) 

683.  If  no  local  law  exists  to  the  contrary,  a  Past 
Grand  of  a  Subordinate  Lodge,  who  is  a  member  in  good 
standing  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  also,  may  be  commissioned 
by  the  Grand  Master  as  his  Special  Deputy  over  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  29,  365,  394.) 

684.  The  several  Grand  Lodges  under  the  jurisdic- 
tion of  the  S.  G.  L.  are  permitted  to  authorize  and  em- 
power the  Presidents  of  their  Rebekah  Assemblies  to 
appoint  and  commission  District  Deputies  for  Rebekah 
Lodges  in  their  respective  jurisdictions.  (S.  J.  15607, 
15633;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  535,  752,  820.) 

685.  The  title  of  a  Deputy,  appointed  by  a  President 
of  a  Rebekah  Assembly,  is  "District  Deputy  President." 
(S.  J.   15753,  16071,  16116.) 


129  R.  L.  VI,  §7. 

686.  It  is  the  imperative  duty  of  every  Lodge  Deputy 
to  see  that  the  property  of  the  Lodge  is  commensurately 
protected  against  loss  by  fire,  by  insurance.  (J.  1897, 
p.  319,  336.) 

688.  He  may  not  act  as  an  attorney  in  a  trial  in  his 
Lodge,  and,  if  avoidable,  should  not  be  a  member  of  a 
prosecuting  committee.  (J.  1901,  p.  12,  319;  J.  1901,  p. 
15,  270,  294.) 

689.  He  has  no  right  of  appeal  conferred  upon  him 
by  virtue  of  his  office,  but  only  as  a  member  of  the  Lodge. 
(J.  1896,  p.  133.) 

690.  An  appeal  from  his  decision  goes  to  the  Grand 
Master.  The  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals  has 
no  jurisdiction  to  hear  it.     (J.  IX,  p.  893.) 

691.  In  all  things  pertaining  to  Lodge  matters  which 
do  not  involve  any  fundamental  issue  or  constitutional 
question,  he  should  not  interfere  in  his  official  capacity 
until,  by  some  proper  means,  his  official  opinion  on  the 
law  is  requested.     (J.  IX,  p.  595.) 

692.  A  Lodge  Deputy  cannot  legally  declare  an  act 
of  the  Lodge  which  is  in  violation  of  law  void,  when  his 
knowledge  of  such  act  is  obtained  by  his  presence  in  the 
Lodge  as  a  member  thereof.  He  may  point  out  errors 
and  call  attention  to  violations  of  law,  but  that  is  all.  It 
is  his  duty  to  report  persistent  violations  to  the  Grand 
Master.     (S.  J.  5281,  5282,  5475,  5520,  5531.) 

693.  He  is  a  representative  of  the  Grand  Master, 
and,  if  so  authorized  by  the  latter  by  commission  or  by 
special  authority,  may  deputize  some  one  to  install  for 
him,  provided  that  the  Grand  Master  is  empowered  so  to 
do  by  local  law.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  27,  282,  314.) 

694.  Any  Lodge  or  member  of  a  Lodge  may  appeal 
from  any  decision  or  action  of  a  Deputy  of  the  Grand 
Master  by  giving  him  notice  of  such  appeal  within  thirty 
days,  in  which  case  the  Deputy  must  report  his  action 
to  the  Grand  Master  forthwith,  with  copy  of  notice  of 
appeal,  and  the  Lodge  shall  send  to  the  Grand  Master  a 
transcript   of  its  records  of  the  matter.      (J.  VII,  p.   117.) 

695.  A  sister,  if  she  is  a  Past  Noble  Grand  of  a 
Rebekah  Lodge,  may  be  appointed  Special  Deputy  to  in- 
stitute a  Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  536,  752,  820.) 


R.  L.  Vl,  §7.  130 

None  but  a  Past  Noble  Grand  or  a  Past  Grand  who  is  a 
member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  may  serve  as  Deputy  Grand 
Master  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294; 
See  §  678  supra.) 

696.  A  District  Deputy  Grand  Master,  wlio  i^  not 
a  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  cannot  assist  in  instituting 
a  new  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  44,,  219,  243.) 

697.  A  District  Deputy  Grand  ^Master  or  District 
President  is  entitled  to  the  honors  when  visiting  offici- 
ally. A  Special  Deputy  is  not.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  537,  752, 
820.)  When  a  Deputy  Grand  ]\Iaster  visits  a  Subordinate 
Lodge  for  the  purpose  of  installing  the  officers-elect,  or 
upon  other  official  duties,  he  is  the  representative  of  the 
Grand  Master,  and  shall  be  accorded  the  same  honors 
that  are  given  to  that  officer.     (S.  J.  4883,  4919.) 

698.  The  Vice  Grand  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  may  not 
be  the  Lodge  Deputy.  (S.  J.  12177;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  538, 
752,  820;  See  §  710  infra.) 

699.  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Masters  are  only  the 
executive  agents  of  the  Grand  Officers  they  represent, 
with  a  general  supervisory  power  in  the  absence  of  their 
principals.  They  have  no  separate  or  independent  exist- 
ence, have  not  been  elected  to  office,  and  are  not  recog- 
nized as  officers  of  any  Grand  Jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  6207, 
6262.) 

700.  Their  authority  depends  for  the  most  part  on 
local  law.  The  general  laws  of  the  Order  do  not  seem 
to  define  their  duties  and  powers.  (S.  J.  10251,  10487, 
10511.) 

70L  They  have  not  the  right  to  introduce  visitors 
whose  cards  are  out  of  date,  that  power  being  restricted 
to  Elective  Grand  Officers.     (S.  J.  2859,  2925,  2963.) 

702.  When  they  visit  Subordinate  Lodges  for  the 
purpose  of  installing  the  officers-elect,  or  upon  other 
official  duty,  they,  as  the  representatives  of  the  Grand 
Master,  shall  be  accorded  the  same  honors  that  are  given 
to  that  officer.     (S.  J.  4883,  4919.) 

703.  A  Special  Deputy,  appointed  to  institute  a 
Lodge,  fulfills  that  duty  when  such  Lodge  is  instituted 
and  he  has  made  report  of  the  same.  (S.  J.  4240,  4404, 
4414,  4430.)    He  continues  as  the  regular  Deputy  in  charge 


131 R.  L.  VI.  §7. 

thereof  until  some  other  Past  Grand  is  appointed  Deputy 
by  the  Grand  Master.     (J.  1857,  p.  50,  55;  T-937;  W-333.) 

704.  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Masters  and  Past  Grands 
deputized  to  install  the  officers  of  Subordinates  are 
charged  with  a  special  duty  clearly  prescribed  by  law 
and  are  entitled  to  all  the  respect  due  to  the  officer  whom 
they  represent,  but  they  have  no  authority  summarily 
to  deprive  a  Lodge  of  its  charter,  nor  any  right  to  as- 
sume the  rank  of  elective  officers  and  introduce  strangers 
into  a  Lodge  without  a  card  or  password.  (S.  J.  1840, 
1896,  1952.) 

705.  A  Past  Grand,  who  has  been  appointed  by  a 
Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  to  install  the  officers  of  a 
Lodge,  is  not  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  Order  when 
he  appears  for  that  purpose.  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Mas- 
ters, when  visiting  to  install  the  officers  or  otherwise 
officially,  are  to  be  received  with  the  honors  of  the  Order. 
(S.  J.  6229,  6278.) 

706.  The  commission  of  a  Deputy  must  be  read  in 
the  Lodge  on  occasion  of  his  first  official  visit  thereto; 
and  the  fact  of  such  visit  and  reading  must  be  entered 
on  the  records.     (J.  Ill,  p.  203.) 

707.  Whenever  the  Deputy  having  charge  of  a  Lodge 
has  neglected  his  duty  to  the  Lodge,  the  Lodge,  after 
reasonable  notice  to  the  Deputy,  may,  by  vote  of  two- 
thirds  of  the  members  present,  address  a  complaint  to 
the  Grand  Master,  who  may,  in  his  discretion,  declare  the 
Deputy  displaced,  whereupon  the  vacancy  is  to  be  filled 
according  to  law.     (J.  1857,  p.  48,  74;  See  §  709,  72linfra.) 

708.  A  Special  Deputy  who  has  been  duly  authorized 
and  given  power  to  institute  a  Lodge,  having  failed  to 
do  so  before  the  expiration  of  the  term  of  the  Grand 
Master  appointing  him,  cannot  afterward  legally  proceed 
to  institute.  His  authority  as  a  Special  Deputy  or  Agent 
was  terminated  when  the  authority  of  the  appointing 
power  ceased.     (S.  J.   10087,   10172.) 

709.  A  L'ulge  Deputy  Grand  Master  may  be  re- 
moved by  tlie  Grand  Master  if  he  neglects  or  refuses  to 
perform  the  duties  enjoined  on  him  by  law.  (S.  J.  6568, 
6630;  See  §  707  supra  and  721  iufra.) 


R.  L.  VI,  §7.  132 

710.  A  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  can  act  as  a 
Recording  Secretary,  but  he  cannot  act  as  Noble  Grand 
or  Vice  Grand.     (S.  J.  12177,  12274;  See  §  698 supra.) 

711.  The  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Masters  are  not  en- 
titled to  copies  of  the  Rituals.  They  have  no  use  for 
same,  as  all  the  forms  used  by  them  are  printed  in  the 
institution  and  installation  books,  and  the  book  of  forms 
published  by  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  11106,  11368,  11396.) 

712.  The  Grand  Master  usually  appoints  for  Lodge 
Deputy  a  Past  Grand  the  one  recommended  by  the  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  itself,  to  him  for  that  purpose;  this  prac- 
tice first  began  in  1893.  (J.  Vol.  IX,  p.  533.)  But  the 
Grand  Master  may  disregard  this  recommendation,  and 
appoint  any  qualified  member.     (J.  IX,  p.  889,  1027.) 

713.  CERTIFICATE  OF  RECOMMENDATION. 
,  Illinois,  19 

(Name  of  City)  (Date.) 

To  the  Grand  MaMer,  I.  O.  O.  F. : 

THIS  IS  TO  CERTIFY 

That  at  a  regular  meeting  of 

(Name  of  Lodge.) 

Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  held  on  the  evening  of 

,    190 ,    Brother , 

residing  at 

(Give  street  and  No.  in  Cities.) 
County  of ,  a  Past  Grand 

(Name  of  County.) 
of  said  Lodge  in  good  standing,  was  selected  by  a  vote  of 
the  Lodge  as  the  one  whom  we  respectfully  recommend 
to  you  for  appointment  as  Lodge  Deputy  for  said  Lodge 

for  the  year  19 

(Seal)  ,  Noble  Grand. 

,    Secretary. 

It  is  important  that  the  Lodge  act  promptly,  and  that 
the  Secretary  should  fill  out  this  blank  and  forward  the 
same  to  the  Grand  Master.     (T-2334.) 

714.  APPOINTMENT    AND    COMMISSION. 
I.  O.  O.  F.— FRIENDSHIP,  LOVE,  TRUTH. 

, Grand    Master   of 

the   Independent   Order   of  Odd   Fellows   of  the   State   of 


133  R.  L.  VI,  §7. 

Illinois,  to  our  well-belovecl  Brother, , 

Past  Grand,  and  whom  it  may  concern.  Greeting: 

Know  ye,  that  reposing  special  confidence  in  your 
knowledge  and  discretion,  I  do,  by  virtue  of  the  power 
and  authority  in  me  vested,  hereby  appoint  and  commis- 
sion you,   the  said , 

our  Deputy  Grand  Master  for 

Lodge,  No ,  at , 

in County. 

And  as  our  Deputy  for  said  Lodge,  you  are  empowered 
and  directed  to  act  as  the  SPECIAL  AGENT  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois  in  relation  to  matters  herein 
specified,   to-wit: 

To  act  for  the  Grand  Master,  and  by  his  direction  to 
do  and  perform  whatever  may  have  been  ordered  to  be 
done  and  performed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  in 
said  Lodge.  To  act  as  the  representative  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Illinois,  and  to  do  and  perform  all  such  mat- 
ters relating  to  the  Order  in  said  Lodge  as  the  Grand 
Master  may  direct.  You  shall  obey  all  special  instruc- 
tions of  the  Grand  Master  in  relation  to  anything  which 
that  officer  is  required  to  do.  You  must  see  to  it  that  the 
Trustees  of  your  Lodge  (under  direction  of  the  Lodge) 
insure  in  some  good  insurance  company  the  property 
and  effects  of  the  Lodge. 

You  are  to  act  as  the  agent  of  the  Grand  Secretary, 
and  to  obey  the  special  instructions  of  that  officer. 

You  have  concurrent  power  with  the  Grand  Master, 
where  it  does  not  conflict  with  his  opinion,  in  granting 
all  dispensations  relating  to  the  above  named  Lodge  and 
its  work,  if  allowed  by  usage  or  express  law,  and  not 
reserved  by  the  Grand  Master,  but  not  otherwise.  It  is 
your  duty  to  confer  official  degrees  on  Past  Officers,  to 
install  the  officers  of  the  Lodge,  or  cause  it  to  be  done 
by  a  qualified  Past  Grand,  whose  authority  must  be  in 
writing  and  presented  to  the  Lodge  upon  his  visiting  it 
for  installation.  It  is  you  duty  to  visit  the  Lodge  at 
least  once  in  each  month,  maintaining  a  general  super- 
vision over  the  Lodge,  seeing  that  the  work  is  done  cor- 
rectly, and  that  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge  are  strictly 
adhered  to;  and  you  must  set  aside  any  decision  or  action 


R.  L.  VI,  §7.  134 

of  the  Lodge  not  in  accordance  therewith.  It  is  your 
duty  to  see  that  the  special  instructions  of  the  Grand 
Secretary  respecting  the  returns  of  the  Lodge  are  care- 
fully observed  and  complied  with. 

In  all  cases  of  doubt  you  must  consult  the  Grand 
Master,  or  the  Grand  Secretary,  when  the  matter  relates 
to  the  business  of  his  office.  You  must  immediately 
report  to  the  Grand  Secretary  the  regular  installations  of 
your  Lodge,  and  at  least  four  weeks  before  the  annual 
session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  you  must  report  to  the  Grand 
Master  the  condition  of  the  Lodge,  and  all  your  acts  not 
previously  reported.  You  are  carefully  to  observe  the 
laws  regulating  your  office,  and  are  not  permitted  to 
transcend   the   powers   herein   set   forth. 

This  commission  is  to  be  read  in  the  Lodge  on  your 
first  visit  thereto,  which  fact  is  to  be  entered  upon  the 
records  of  the  Lodge.     This  commission  is  to  be  in  force 

through  the  year  19 (or  such  part  of  it  as  may  remain 

unexpired  at  the  date  hereinbelow  set  forth,)  and  until 
the  appointment  of  your  successor,  unless  it  be  sooner 
revoked  by  the  Grand  Lodge  or  the  Grand  Master. 

IN  TESTIMONY  WHEREOF,  I  have  hereunto  set 
my    hand   and    affixed    the    seal    of    the    Grand    Lodge    of 

Illinois,  this  first  day  of  January,  19 

,  Grand  Master. 

By  the  Grand  Master. 

,    Grand    Secretary. 

(Seal)  (T-2335.) 

715,  Whenever  a  Lodge  Deputy  shall  be  more  than 
thirteen  weeks  in  arrears,  he  shall  not  use  the  password 
for  working  purposes,  and  for  a  violation  hereof  be  sub- 
ject to  such  penalty  as  the  Lodge  may  prescribe,  not  in 
excess  of  suspension  for  one  year;  provided  such  Deputy 
shall  not  hereby  be  prevented  from  imparting  such  pass- 
word to  the  proper  officer  of  his  Lodge  as  now  re- 
quired by  law.     (J.  IX,  p.  138.) 

716.  If  any  controversy  arises  between  an  elective 
Grand  Officer  and  a  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  as  to 
the  one  who  shall  conduct  a  public  installation,  the 
elective  Grand  Officer,  being  superior  in  rank,  shall  have 
precedence.     (S.  J.  3031,  3083,  3113.) 


135 R.  L.  VI,  §7. 

717.  After  a  brother  has  served  regularly  as  Noble 
Grand,  received  the  Past  Grand's  Degree,  and  has  been 
elected  and  served  as  Representative,  it  is  too  late  to 
raise  the  question  of  his  eligibility  as  Lodge  Deputy 
upon  the  ground  that  at  the  time  of  his  installation  as 
Noble  Grand  he  was  ineligible  to  such  office.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  31,  360,  371.) 

718.  A  Past  Grand  of  one  jurisdiction  is  ineligible 
for  appointment,  by  the  Grand  Master  of  another  juris- 
diction, in  which  he  is  residing,  to  the  ofifice  of  Special 
Deputy.     (S.  J.  15176,  15534,  15584.) 

719.  A  Past  Grand  need  not  have  the  Grand  Lodge 
Degree  to  render  him  eligible  to  the  office  of  Lodge 
Deputy.     (S.  J.  4838,  4869,  4887,  4919.) 

720.  In  jurisdictions  which  confer  the  Past  Grand's 
Degree  only  at  the  sessions  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  a  Past 
Grand  is  not  required  to  have  such  Degree  to  be  eligible 
as  Lodge  Deputy.     (S.  J.  10648,  10663.) 

721.  A  Deputy  Grand  Master  may  be  removed  by 
the  Grand  Master  for  neglect  or  refusal  to  perform  du- 
ties enjoined  upon  him  by  law,  but  he  cannot  be  removed 
for  his  refusal  to  deliver  up  to  the  Grand  Master  papers 
which  the  law,  for  a  specific  purpose,  has  placed  in  his 
custody,  and  which  can  only  be  called  for  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  itself.  (S.  J.  6566,  6629,  6967,  6974;  See  §  707,  709 
sup)-a.) 

722.  A  Grand  Lodge  has  no  right  to  provide  in  its 
Constitution  that  "No  Deputy  Grand  Master  shall  be 
eligible  to  elective  ofifice  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge."  (S.  J. 
8369,   8469.) 

723.  A  Lodge  Deputy  may  grant  dispensations  with- 
in the  limitations  fixed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  his  own 
jurisdiction.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  507,  827,  873.) 

724.  A  Lodge  Deputy  has  no  authority  to  confer  the 
Assembly  Degree.  That  Degree  can  only  be  conferred 
by  the  Assembly  in  the  room  in  which  the  Assembly  is 
assembled,  or  in  some  contiguous  room.  (S.  J.  1090,  1091, 
4838,  4869.) 

725.  A  Lodge  Deputy  may  act  as  the  Noble  Grand 
of  his  Lodge  in  the  absence  of  both  Noble  Grand  and 
Vice  Grand.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  24,  284,  314.) 


R.  L.  VI,  §7.  136 

726.  A  Lodge  Deputy  has  no  right  by  endorsement 
on  the  back  of  an  expired  withdrawal  card,  to  place  the 
same  in  date.     (S.  J.  9280,  9347.) 

727.  In  all  jurisdictions  of  the  S.  G.  L.  where  Re- 
bekah  Assemblies  are  organized,  Grand  Lodges  are  per- 
mitted to  authorize  and  empower  the  Presidents  of  such 
Assemblies  to  appoint  and  commission  District  Deputy 
Presidents  for  Rebekah  Lodges  under  their  respective 
jurisdictions  having  the  corresponding  powers  and  privil- 
eges of  Presidents  of  the  Rebekah  Assemblies,  in  the 
same  manner  as  possessed  by  District  Deputy  Grand 
Masters  in  Subordinate  Lodges,  provided  that  in  jurisdic- 
tions where  no  Rebekah  Assemblies  exist,  the  title  of 
such  ofificer  shall  be  District  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
otherwise  to  be  known  and  hailed  as  Deputy  Presidents. 
(S.  J.  XXI,  p.  832,  876.) 

THE  DUTIES  OF  THE  LODGE  DEPUTY: 

728.  To  act  as  the  special  agent  and  representative 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  his  own  Lodge  and  under  the 
general  or  special  instructions  of  the  Grand  Master  and 
Grand  Secretary,  to  act  as  their  agent  in  the  Lodge,  and 
to  do  and  perform  all  matters  relating  to  the  Order  given 
into  his  charge.  In  cases  of  doubt,  he  is  to  consult  the 
Grand  Master,  or  the  Grand  Secretary  if  the  business  re- 
lates to  the  Grand  Secretary's  office.     (T-939.) 

To  see  that  the  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.  and  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Illinois  are  strictly  observed,  and  to  stay  all 
proceedings  in  the  Lodge  which  are  illegal  or  irregular, 
or  which  afford  ground  for  suspicion  of  error  or  fraud. 
(T-939.) 

Explanation. — This  means  that  any  illegal  or  fraudu- 
lent acts  of  a  Lodge  or  its  officers  may  be  stopped  at  any 
point  in  the  proceedings;  this  may  be  done  when  the  ac- 
tion is  about  to  be  taken,  or  when  it  is  partly  effected 
and  still  incomplete,  or  when  the  object  of  the  act  is  not 
yet  effected,  or  when  the  act  can  be  recalled;  and  this 
stay  of  proceedings  or  reversal  of  action  may  take  place 
whether  the  action  of  the  Lodge  be  positive  or  negative 
in  form;  that  is,  whether  it  be  a  resolution  to  do  an  illegal 
act  or  a  refusal  to  perform  an  imperative  duty.  The 
Deputy  may  stay  proceedings  orally,  but  must  reduce  his 
prohibition    to    writing   immediately.      The    action    of    the 


137  R.  L.  VI,  §7. 

Deputy  in  such  case  becomes  a  part  of  the  transactions  of 
the  Lodge  and  must  go  upon  its  records,  and  the  whole 
case  must  be  sent  at  once  to  the  Grand  Master. 

To  visit  his  Lodge  at  least  once  in  each  month  and 
to  see  that  the  work  of  the  Order  is  done  correctly. 

To  install  the  officers  of  his  Lodge  or  to  cause  them 
to  be  installed  by  a  Past  Grand  to  whom  the  Deputy 
gives  written  authority. 

To  give  the  passwords  to  the  Noble  Grand  and  the 
Vice  Grand  only. 

To  confer  the  Past  Of¥icial  Degree  on  qualified  Past 
Officers,  or  to  authorize  it  to  be  done  by  some  competent 
Past  Grand. 

To  keep  a  record  or  journal  of  all  his  ofificial  acts: 
(a)  of  each  application  for  a  dispensation,  stating  whether 
the  dispensation  was  granted,  and  if  refused,  why?  (b) 
of  the  date  of  all  installations,  with  names  of  ofificers  in- 
stalled; (c)  of  all  decisions  made  by  him;  (d)  of  all  other 
matters  appertaining  to  his  office. 

To  make,  not  later  than  four  weeks  before  the  An- 
nual Session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  a  report  to  the  Grand 
Master  of  all  his  acts  not  previously  reported.  (J.  VL 
p.  70,  72.) 

THE  POWERS  OF  A  LODGE  DEPUTY: 

729.  To  decide  upon  all  ciuestions  presented  him  by 
his  Lodge  or  its  officers,  and  no  others.  A  question  of 
the  Lodge  must  be  by  resolution,  and  in  writing;  the 
answer  should  be  in  v^^riting,  but  if  oral,  it  must  be  given 
in  open  Lodge  and  recorded.  A  question  presented  by 
an  officer  must  be  in  writing,  if  possible,  but  if  it  arises 
during  the  meeting  of  a  Lodge,  and  the  Noble  Grand 
thinks  it  should  be  answered  without  delay,  the  question 
may  be  oral.  The  answer  should  be  in  writing,  but  in 
emergency,  it  may  be  oral;  in  either  case,  it  must  be  re- 
corded, as  the  question  is  also  to  be  recorded.     (T-940.) 

Upon  proper  application  and  presentation  to  him  of 
the  duly  attested  record  of  proceedings,  etc.,  in  a  case 
wherein  an  appeal  is  to  be  taken,  the  application  and 
notice  of  appeal  accompanying  said  record,  the  Lodge 
Deputy  Grand  Master  may  suspend  further  action  or 
proceedings    in    the    case    or    under    the    decision    against 


R.  L.  VI,  §7. 138 

which  appeal  is  taken,  until  the  further  order  of  the 
Grand  Master  can  be  had.  Such  stay  of  proceedings 
must  be  in  writing  and  entered  of  record.     (T-940.) 

Explanation. — A  Lodge  Deputy  Grand  Master  may 
arrest  a  sentence  of  fine,  reprimand,  suspension  or  ex- 
pulsion, or  suspend  the  execution  of  any  other  judgment 
of  the  Lodge  until  the  record  can  be  reviewed  on  appeal, 
either  by  the  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals  or  by 
the  Grand  Master.  He  may  suspend  the  payment  of  a 
sum  of  money  from  the  treasury  until  an  appeal  respect- 
ing the  payment  has  been  decided.  He  cannot,  however, 
arrest  a  trial  on  any  incidental  question;  it  must  be  con- 
ducted to  its  close,  and  appealed  on  the  final  result. 
(T-940;  See  §  1051    infra.) 

He  may  grant  dispensation  as  follows:  (a)  to  allow 
a  person  to  be  proposed,  reported  upon,  elected  and 
initiated  or  admitted  by  deposit  of  card,  on  one  and  the 
same  evening;  (b)  to  permit  a  Lodge  to  elect  a  Third 
Degree  member  to  the  ofiEice  of  Noble  Grand,  if  no  Past 
Grand,  or  Past  Vice  Grand  free  from  charges,  and  in 
good  standing,  will  accept  it;  (c)  to  allow  his  Lodge  to 
join  in  the  ordinary  celebration  of  national  festival  days. 
(J.  VL  p.  70,  72;  T-940.) 

A  Deputy  (of  a  Rebekah  Lodge)  may  stay  any  illegal 
act  of  her  Lodge,  or  point  out  to  it  a  duty  it  should  per- 
form, but  she  has  no  right  to  hear  appeals.  Should  the 
Lodge  refuse  to  perform  its  duty  or  to  act  legally,  she 
should  report  the  matter,  with  her  actions  thereon,  to  the 
Grand  Master.     (J.  1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 

PROHIBITIONS     CONTROL    A     LODGE    DEPUTY 
GRAND  MASTER  AS  FOLLOWS: 

730.  He  may  not  issue  any  other  dispensations  than 
those  above  enumerated. 

He  may  not  give  any  official  decision  upon  a  ques- 
tion or  appeal,  except  as  above  enumerated. 

He  may  not  officially  decide  any  question  that  may 
arise  during  the  progress  of  a  trial;  at  such  time  his  posi- 
tion is  the  same  as  that  of  any  other  member. 

He  may  not  set  aside  charges   regularly  and  legally 


139 R.  L.  VI,  §8. 

made,  whether  against  himself  or  any  other  member  of 
the  Lodge. 

He  may  not  set  aside  a  ballot  without  assignme^i-t  of 
legal  reasons;  this  only  upon  the  ground  of  error  or  fraud. 

He  may  not  act  as  attorney  for  the  defendant  in  a 
trial;  and  similarly,  he  should  not,  if  avoidable,  be  one  of 
the  prosecuting  committee. 

He  may  not  install  officers  unless  they  are  duly  quali- 
fied according  to  law,  which  fact  he  must  ascertain. 

He  may  not  take  the  charter  of  his  Lodge.  He  may 
not  remove  any  officer  of  the  Lodge  for  any  cause.  He 
may  not  interfere  with  the  functions  of  any  officers  of  the 
Lodge,  nor  take  any  officer's  chair,  nor  usurp  his  place, 
nor  interrupt  his  legal  proceedings. 

He  may  not  assume  the  privileges  of  a  Grand  Officer 
or  introduce  visitors  without  card  or  password. 

He  may  not  receive  compensation  for  official  visits  in 
his  own  town  or  city. 

He  may  not  set  aside  the  regular  By-Laws  of  a 
Lodge.     (J.  VL  p.  70,  72;  T-941.) 

A  Deputy  cannot  give  a  dispensation  to  wear  regalia 
in  public,  or  for  a  ball,  picnic  or  excursion  or  entertain- 
ment of  any  kind.     (J.  1901,  p.  IS,  270,  294.) 

731.    DELEGATES,     WHEN     ELECTED.— 

Sec.  8 — This  Lodge  shall  elect  a  delegate  to  the  Re- 
bekah  State  Assembl}^  from  among  its  duly  quali- 
fied members  for  the  term  of  two  years,  at  the  first 
meeting  in  January  immediately  after  installation, 
notification  being  sent  to  the  Assembly  Secretary  of 
said  election  on  blanks  prepared  for  that  purpose ; 
even-numbered  Lodges  electing  in  even-numbered 
years,  and  odd-numbered  Lodges  in  odd-numbered 
years.     (J.  1907,  p.  246.) 


R.  L.  VII,  §1.  140 

ARTICLE  VII.— REGALIA  AND  JEWELS. 

732.    REGALIA,    DESCRIBED.— Section    L— 

The  regalia  and  jewels  for  officers  of  Rebekah 
Lodges  shall  be  as  follows,  to-wit : 

Each  collar  shall  not  exceed  three  inches  in 
width  ;  each  baldric  shall  not  exceed  three  and  one- 
half  inches  in  width;  and  each  jewel  shall  be  of  sil- 
ver or  silver-plated,  circular  in  form,  and  one  and 
one-half  inches  in  diameter,  with  design  hereinafter 
specified  engraved  or  stamped  on  one  side,  and  with 
the  other  side  plain. 

For  the  Xohic  Grand — Regalia,  a  collar  with  pink 
center  and  green  edges,  trimmed  with  silver  lace 
and  fringe;  jewel,  with  representation  or  figure  of 
"Rebekah  at  the  well,",  and  underneath,  the  word 
"Fidelity." 

For  the  Yice  Grand — Regalia,  a  collar  with  green 
center  and  pink  edges,  trimmed  with  silver  lace  and 
fringe;  jewel,  with  representation  or  figure  of  Ruth 
and  Naomi,  and  underneath,  the  word  "Industry." 

For  the  Secretary — Regalia,  a  collar  with  pink 
center  and  green  edges,  trimmed  with  silver  lace; 
jew^el,  with  a  representation  or  figure  of  a  pen,  and 
underneath,  the  word  "Deborah." 

For  the  Financial  Secretary  (if  there  be  one) — 
Regalia,  a  collar  and  jewel  same  as  the  Secretary's, 
except  that  the  word  "Deborah"  shall  be  omitted 
from  the  jewel. 

For  the  Treasurer — Regalia,  a  collar  with  green 
center  and  pink  edges  trimmed  with  silver  lace ; 
jewel,  with  representation  or  a  figure  of  a  key.  and 
underneath,  the  \vord,  "Trust." 

For  the  Warden — Regalia,  a  baldric,  with  upper 
side  green  and  lower  side  pink,  with  three  rows  of 


141  R.  L.  VII,  §1. 

silver  lace,  one  on  each  edge  and  one  along  the  cen- 
ter, the  lowest  edge  to  be  trimmed  with  silver  lace  ; 
jewel,  with  representation  or  figure  of  a  bar  and  ax, 
crossed,  and  underneath,  the  word  "Hope." 

For  the  Conductor — Regalia,  a  baldric,  same  as 
Warden's  in  shape  and  colors,  with  row  of  silver 
lace  around  inner  edge;  jewel,  with  representation 
or  figure  of  two  wands,  crossed,  and  underneath, 
the  word  "Safety." 

For  the  Inside  Chuardian — Regalia,  a  baldric, 
same  as  Warden's;  jewel,  with  representation  or 
figure  of  a  shield  crossed  by  a  spear,  and  under- 
neath, the  word  "Prove." 

For  the  Outside  Guardian — Regalia,  a  baldric, 
same  as  Conductor,  except  that  the  row  of  silver 
lace  be  on  the  outside,  none  in  the  center;  jewel, 
same  as  Inside  Guardian's,  except  that  the  word 
shall  be  "Vigilance." 

For  the  Chaplain — Regalia,  a  white  baldric,  with 
silver  lace  on  each  edge,  the  front  to  be  ornamented 
with  pink  roses  and  green  leaves. 

For  the  Supporters  to  Nohle  Grand — Regalia,  a 
baldric,  with  pink  center  and  green  edges,  trimmed 
with  two  rows  of  silver  lace. 

For  the  Supporters  to  Vice  Grand — Regalia,  a 
baldric,  with  green  center  and  pink  edges,  trimmed 
with  two  rows  of  silver  lace. 

For  each  Past  Nohle  Grand — Regalia,  a  collar, 
the  same  as  Noble  Grand's  in  shape  and  colors, 
except  the  lace  and  fringe  shall  be  of  gold  instead 
of  silver;  jewel,  a  five-pointed  star  of  white  metal, 
the  use  of  the  jewel  shall  be  optional  to  all  but  the 
Junior  Past  Noble  Grand. 

All  of  the  foregoing  shall  apply  to  all  officers 
and  Past  Noble  Grands,  irrespective  of  sex. 


R.  L.  VII,  §1.  142 

Brothers  who  are  not  officers  or  Past  Noble 
Grands  shall  wear  the  regalia  they  are  entitled  to 
wear  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge. 

Sisters  who  are  not  officers  or  Past  Noble 
Grands  shall  wear  badges  or  collars  of  pink  and 
green,  not  exceeding  three  inches  in  width.  (J. 
1907,  p.  387,  388,  424.) 

733.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Vice  Grand,  while  occupy- 
ing the  chair  of  the  Noble  Grand,  to  wear  the  regalia  of 
the  Noble  Grand.  (S.  J.  1443,  1475,  1511;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24. 
365,  394.) 

734.  Any  member  occupying  either  permanently  or 
temporarily  a  Subordinate  Station  in  a  Lodge  should  wear 
the  regalia  of  the  office  he  thus  occupies.  If  a  Past  Grand 
or  Past  Noble  Grand  occupies  the  Vice  Grand's  chair, 
he  should  wear  the  regalia  of  that  office  exactly  as  the 
Vice  Grand  does  when  acting  as  Noble  Grand.  The  same 
rule  applies  to  other  officers.  But  a  member  is  not  justi- 
fied in  refusing  to  give  the  password  to  a  Past  Grand  or 
Past  Noble  Grand  temporarily  acting  as  Warden,  who  has 
not  assumed  the  proper  regalia  of  that  office.  If  the  pre- 
siding officer  of  the  Lodge  recognizes  him  as  Warden 
and  gives  him  orders  accordingly,  the  members  of  the 
Lodge  should  follow  the  example  of  the  presiding  officer, 
by  acknowledging  his  authority  in  that  office.  (S.  J. 
1475,  1511,  2175,  11095,  11405.) 

735.  An  officer  of  a  Lodge  whose  regalia  is  in  her 
chair  in  the  Lodge  room  cannot  enter  without  any  re- 
galia, but  must  enter  in  the  regalia  of  a  non-official  mem- 
ber, and  after  being  admitted,  exchange  it  for  the  official 
regalia.     (S.  J.  2699,  2764,  2810.) 

736.  A  solid  gold  jewel  in  the  form  of  a  five-pointed 
star  or  sickle,  with  the  emblem  of  the  Rebekah  Degree 
on  it  attached  to  a  pink  and  green  ribbon,  is  not  a  suffi- 
cient regalia  for  a  Past  Noble  Grand  to  wear  in  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge,  and  will  not  authorize  a  Past  Noble  Grand 
so  clothed  to  take  part  in  the  deliberations  of  the  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  XXII,  p.  443,  675,  709.) 

737.  Section  25  of  the  Rebekah  Code  provides  that 
the  regalia  for  each  Past  Noble  Grand  shall  be  a  collar 


143 R.  L.  VII.  §1. 

the  same  as  the  Noble  Grand's  in  shape  and  color,  except 
that  the  lace  and  fringe  shall  be  of  gold  instead  of  silver, 
etc.  The  same  section  provides  that  sisters  vs^ho  are  not 
oflficers  or  Past  Noble  Grands  shall  wear  badges  or  collars 
of  pink  and  green  not  exceeding  three  inches  in  width. 
(See  also  Rebekah  Ritual,  p.  30  and  31.)  A  Past  Noble 
Grand,  who  is  not  an  officer,  is  not  permitted  to  wear  a 
badge  of  pink  and  green  in  lieu  of  other  regalia.  Nor 
will  the  addition  of  the  Past  Noble  Grand's  jewel  render 
the  badge  sufficient.     (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  44,  219,  239,  253.) 

738.  If  a  Lodge  has  permission  to  march  in  public 
procession  in  regalia,  Subordinate  or  Encampment  mem- 
bers of  such  Lodge  have  the  right  to  wear  the  Subordinate 
or  Encampment  regalia  in  such  Lodge  processions.  (S. 
J.  11103,  11368,  11396.) 

739.  It  is  not  lawful  to  enact  a  drama  on  the  stage 
in  public,  in  uniform  and  the  regalia  of  the  Order,  al- 
though the  drama  be  founded  upon  the  principles  of  Odd 
Fellowship  and  designed  to  illustrate  "Charity."  (S.  J. 
11104,  11368,  11396.)  Nor  may  a  Rebekah  Lodge  give  an 
exhibition  drill  in  costume  before  persons  not  members 
of  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  using  the  drill  or  floor  work  per- 
taining to  the  degree,  nor  may  the  costumes  be  used  in 
giving  public  exhibitions,  nor  may  photographs  of  the 
stafif  be  taken  in  the  robes  and  costumes.  (S.  J.  14676, 
14948,  15019.) 

740.  A  Lodge  has  no  right  to  assess  its  members  to 
purchase  regalia.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  530,  979,  1002.)  The 
wearing  of  uniforms  is  only  a  voluntary  matter,  and  any- 
thing that  would  directly  or  indirectly  compel  members 
to  procure  them  would  be  highly  objectionable.  (S.  J. 
8345,  8461.) 

741.  The  costumes  worn  in  conferring  the  degree 
cannot  be  used  on  public  occasions  (S.  J.  4467,  4626,  4671.) 
nor  can  they  be  worn  by  the  officers  on  the  occasion  of 
a  public  anniversary  of  a  Lodge.  (S.  J.  14683,  14948, 
15019.)  And  it  is  a  violation  of  the  law  to  have  photo- 
graphs taken  of  a  Degree  Staff  in  its  paraphernalia,  even 
if  such  pictures  are  to  be  hung  in  the  Lodge  room  and 
not  sold  or  offered  for  sale.  (S.  J.  15170,  15534,  15584; 
S.    J.  XX,  p.  40,  361,  371,  372.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §1.  144 

742.  The  law  does  not  prohibit  attendance  at  church 
or  other  public  place  in  regalia  merely  to  listen  to  a  ser- 
mon and  return  directly  to  the  Lodge  room.  (S.  J.  14685, 
15045,  15086.) 

743.  Lady  members  other  than  officers  and  Past 
Noble  Grands  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  may  wear  the  badge 
described  in  Section  25  of  the  Rebekah  Code.  (S.  J.  14241, 
14487,  14570.)  They  may  also  wear  the  three  links.  (S. 
J.  XX,  p.  35,  36,  361,  371,  372.)  Floral  boquets  of  pink 
and  green  cannot  be  worn  in  lieu  of  regalia.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  510,  827,  873.)  A  brother  not  an  officer  of  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  may  wear  therein  the  regalia  he  is  entitled  to  wear 
in  a  Subordinate  Lodge,  (S.  J.  15802,  16071,  16116,)  which 
may  be  an  Encampment  regalia.  (S.  J.  15172,  15534,  15584; 
See  §  736,  IZl  supra.) 

744.  Rebekah  Assemblies  cannot  authorize  or  permit 
the  wearing  of  any  regalia  other  than  that  prescribed  by 
the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365,  394.) 

745.  Any  Lodge  may  make  its  own  regalia,  provided 
the  same  is  made  as  prescribed  by  law.  (S.  J.  15753, 
16071,  16116.) 

746.  There  is  nothing  prohibiting  additional  robes 
to  those  prescribed  in  the  Rituals,  but  others  cannot  be 
substituted  in  place  of  those  prescribed.  (S.  J.  14241, 
14487,  14570.) 

ARTICLE  VIII.— DROPPING,  TRIALS, 
PENALTIES. 

747.  MEMBERS  DROPPED,  WHEN.— Sec- 
tion L — Any  member  who  shall  become  in  arrears 
for  the  dues  and  assessments  accruing  against  him 
or  her  during  the  period  of  one  full  year,  shall, 
after  twenty  days'  written  notice  from  the  Finan- 
cial Secretary,  delivered  to  him  or  her  in  person, 
if  possible,  otherwise  by  mail  to  his  or  her  last 
known  address,  be  declared  by  the  Noble  Grand 
dropped  from  membership,  unless  the  Lodge  shall 
otherwise  direct,  or  unless,  in  the  meantime,  such 
member  shall  have  made  payments  so  as  to  reduce 


145  R.  L.  VIII,  §1. 

the  amount  to  a  sum  less  than  the  dues  and  assess- 
ments accruing  during  one  full  year.  (J.  1907,  388, 
389,  424.) 

748.  The  notice  upon  which  a  dropping  is  predicated 
cannot  be  given  until  after  one  full  year's  dues  have  ac- 
crued.    (See  §  766    infra.) 

749.  A  member  more  than  one  year  in  arrears  for 
dues  cannot  be  dropped  until  the  Financial  Secretary  has 
given,  by  delivering  or  mailing  to  the  last  known  address, 
a  twenty  days'  written  notice  of  arrears.  (J.  1901,  p.  13, 
270,  294.) 

750.  A  brother  dropped  or  suspended  from  his  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  stands  suspended  from  his  Rebekah 
Lodge;  when  reinstated  in  his  Subordinate  Lodge,  he  is 
reinstated  ipso  facto  in  his  Rebekah  Lodge,  unless  he 
had  been  dropped  therefrom  for  arrears.  His  Rebekah 
Lodge  should  receive  dues  from  him  if  tendered  during 
his  suspension  in  his  Subordinate  Lodge.  (J.  1901,  p.  14, 
270,  2194.) 

751.  When  any  member  of  a  Lodge  shall  neglect  or 
refuse  to  pay  the  dues  fixed  by  the  laws  for  the  space 
of  one  year,  the  Secretary  shall  report  the  same  to  the 
Noble  Grand,  and,  unless  the  Lodge  shall  otherwise  di- 
rect, such  member  shall  thereupon  be  suspended  (he  hav- 
ing been  first  notified  of  the  action  that  would  be  taken,) 
a  record  of  which  shall  be  made  upon  the  minutes.  The 
mere  fact  of  a  member  being  over  twelve  months  in 
arrears  shall  not  constitute  him  a  suspended  or  dropped 
member,  to  render  him  such  the  Lodge  must  formally 
declare  him  to  be  suspended.  (S.  J.  7505.)  A  member 
whose  dues  were  paid  to  January  1st,  1897,  could  not  be 
suspended  on  the  28th  day  of  December,  1897,  the  period 
not  being  one  year.     (S.  J.  15169,  15534,  15584.) 

752.  In  suspending  a  member  for  non-payment  of 
dues,  it  is  not  necessary  that  a  ballot  be  taken.  Any  ac- 
tion of  the  Lodge  whereby  the  sense  of  the  body  is 
reached  and  declared  and  made  a  matter  of  record,  is 
sufficient.     (S.  J.  8141,  8182.) 

753.  Dropping  is  by  the  following  procedure,  which 
may  be  at  a  regular  or  special  meeting:  The  Financial 
Secretary  must  from   time   to   time  report   to   the   Noble 


R.  L.  VIII.  §1. 146 

Grand  the  names  of  duly  notified  members  who  have  be- 
come in  arrears  for  dues  accruing  during  a  period  of 
twelve  months;  the  Noble  Grand  must  announce  the  same 
to  the  Lodge,  and  unless  the  Lodge  directs  otherwise, 
he  shall  declare  the  members  named  dropped  from  mem- 
bership for  non-payment  of  dues,  and  the  Secretary  must 
enter  the  same  upon  the  records  of  the  Lodge.  (See  §  747 
siqjra;  J.   Ill,  p.  162,  203.) 

754.  A  Lodge  cannot  refuse  to  receive,  in  full  or  in 
part,  the  dues  of  a  member  prior  to  his  suspension,  and 
no  member  can  be  suspended  or  dropped  from  member- 
ship in  the  Order  for  non-payment  of  dues  unless  at  the 
time  of  his  suspension  he  shall  be  indebted  to  the  Lodge 
for  one  year's  dues.     (S.  J.  7505;  See  §  1329   iiifra.) 

755.  Section  1,  of  Article  VIII,  of  the  Lodge  Con- 
stitution, requires  two  things  for  a  dropping:  First,  a 
year's  arrears;  second,  proper  notification.  A  Lodge  can- 
not drop  a  member  for  less  than  the  dues  accruing  during 
a  whole  year.  If  a  brother's  account  is  paid  up  to  Janu- 
ary 1st  of  any  year,  he  cannot  be  twelve  months  in  ar- 
rears on  the  31st  of  December  of  the  same  year.  The 
account  must  have  run  for  one  year  before  he  is  one  year 
in  arrears.     (Const.,  Sec.  1,  Art.  VIII;  T-1445.) 

756.  A  Lodge  must  give  a  member  twenty  days' 
written  notice  before  dropping  him  for  non-payment  of 
dues;  the  notice  may  be  given  any  time  after  all  dues, 
assessments  and  fines  accruing  during  one  full  year  im- 
mediately preceding  the  notice  have  accrued.  (J.  1901, 
p.  9,  319.  As  amended,  J.  1905,  p.  320,  335;  See  §  747 
supra.) 

757.  Only  one  notilication  to  a  member  is  required 
by  law  before  dropping  him,  viz.:  that  required  in  Section 
1,  Article  VIII,  of  the  Constitution.  (§  747  supra.)  Then 
the  list  of  notified  delinquents  shall  be  handed  to  the 
Noble  Grand  twenty  days  after  the  notification,  and  that 
officer  shall  declare  them  dropped,  unless  the  Lodge  or- 
ders otherwise.  If  he  omits  his  duty  then,  it  may  come 
up  in  any  subsequent  meeting,  when  all  may  be  dropped 
who  have  not  meanwhile  paid  enough  to  reduce  their 
dues  to  less  than  one  year's  amount.  If  after  the  noti- 
fication required  by  law,  a  brother  pays  so  much  of  his 
dues  that  the  remainder  is  less  than  what  has  accrued  in 


147  R.  L.  VIII,  §1. 

a  year's  time,  and  then  pays  no  more  until  a  year's  dues 
have  accrued  again,  notification  must  be  renewed  before 
dropping  him.  But  a  duly  notified  member  one  year  in 
arrears  may  be  dropped  at  any  time;  or  he  may  pay  up 
and  hold  his  membership,  at  any  time  before  the  action 
of  the  Lodge  is  taken.  (J.  V,  p.  684,  791;  as  amended, 
§  747  supra. ) 

758.  The  following  form  for  notice  upon  which  a 
dropping  may  be  based  is  suggested: 

Brother 

Dear  Brother: — You  are  hereby  notified  that  your  ac- 
count  with Lodge   on    this    date 

shows  an  indebtedness  on  your  part  in  the  sum  of 

dollars,    which    sum   total   is   made   up   of 

the  following  items:  (Here  insert  the  amount  for  dues, 
assessments  and  other  purposes.)  This  is  more  than  the 
dues  and  assessments  accuring  for  one  year,  and  you  are 

hereby  notified  that  at  a  regular  meeting  of 

Lodge,  to  be  held   on   the day   of 

,  the  question  of  your  arrearages 

will  be  taken  up,  at  which  time  you  will  be  dropped  from 
membership,  unless  in  the  meantime  you  shall  make  a 
payment  reducing  the  amount  to  a  sum  less  than  the  dues 
and  assessments,  accruing  for  one  year,  or  upon  your 
application  the  Lodge  grants  you  further  time  for  pay- 
ment. 
(Seal)  Signed ,  Secretary. 

The  date  of  this  notice  must  be  twenty  days  or  more  in  advance 
of  the  regular  meeting  at  which  the  proposed  action  is  to  be  had. 
(See   §    747   ««/;•«.— Editor.) 

759.  When  a  brother  eleven  months  in  arrears  is 
present  in  the  Lodge  and  examines  the  books  of  the 
Financial  Secretary,  and  is  shown  the  state  of  his  ac- 
count, he  is  not  duly  notified,  under  Article  IV,  Section  5, 
of  the  Constitution,  as  the  Constitution  requires  the  de- 
livery or  mailing  of  the  notice.  (J.  V,  p.  683,  791;  See 
§  747  supra.) 

760.  A  member  cannot  be  dropped  for  non-payment 
of  dues  whilst  a  Lodge  is  indebted  to  him  of  sufificient 
amount  to  reduce  the  indebtedness  within  the  limits  of  the 
Constitutional  provision,  even  though  he  has  refused  the 
amount  offered  because  he  claimed  a  larger  amount,  nor 
if    the    Lodge    is    owing    him    sufficient    to    make    him,    if 


R.  L.  VIII,  §1. 148 

credited,  in  good  standing.  Dues  actually  accrued  should 
be  deducted  from  the  indebtedness.  (S.  J.  1633,  1655, 
6240,  6322,  9736,  9802.) 

761.  A  brother  who  is  in  arrears  for  dues  may  not 
offset  his  dues  against  an  unadjusted  claim,  even  though 
the  claim  be  just.  The  Lodge,  not  the  brother,  must 
make  the  offset.     (J.  1901,  p.  159.) 

762.  A  brother's  right  to  vote  cannot  be  curtailed 
by  reason  of  non-payment,  if  it  is  proved  that  he  offered 
to  pay  his  dues  and  assessments,  but  could  not  because 
the  proper  officer  V4ras  not  present  to  receive  them,  unless 
the  brother  at  a  subsequent  meeting,  when  the  officer 
was  present,  has  failed  to  pay  the  said  indebtedness.  (J. 
VI,  p.  496,  623;  See  §  770  infra.) 

763.  A  delinquent  member's  dues  may  not  be  added 
to  or  increased  beyond  the  regular  rate  as  a  punishment 
for  such  delinquency.     (J.  1856,  p.  117.) 

764.  It  is  wholly  improper  for  a  Lodge  to  give  no- 
tice to  other  Lodges  in  case  of  dropping  for  non-payment 
of  dues,  as  it  does  in  cases  of  rejection,  expulsion  and 
suspension  for  cause.     (J.  V,  p.  683,  791.) 

765.  A  member  of  the  Order  who  becomes  in  arrears 
for  dues  for  a  period  of  one  year  may  be  suspended  or 
dropped  from  membership,  but  he  cannot  be  expelled 
from  the  Order  on  account  of  being  in  arrears  for  dues. 
(S.  J.  4397,  4418,  4848,  4891,  4892,  8487;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  518, 
828,  873.) 

766.  The  notice  upon  which  a  suspension  for  dues 
may  be  based  must  be  given  after  a  full  year's  dues  have 
accrued.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  23,  365,  394.) 

767.  What  officer  should  notify  delinquent  members 
as  to  their  arrearages,  and  whether  such  notice  shall  be 
given  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge  and  noted  in  the 
minutes  and  the  action  of  the  Lodge  thereon,  is  a  matter 
for  local  legislation.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  978,  1001.) 

768.  To  suspend  or  drop  a  member  for  non-payment 
of  dues,  the  time  fixed  by  law  must  be  regarded,  and  not 
the  amount  due.  A  brother  clear  on  the  books  on  the 
1st  of  January,  for  instance,  cannot  be  suspended  or 
dropped  until  a  year  thereafter,  no  matter  what  amount 
may  be  charged  against  him  in  the  intermediate  time  by 


149  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

fines,  dues,  assessments  or  otherwise.  (S.  J.  8838,  9025, 
9101.) 

769.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  became  insane  and  was 
sent  to  an  asylum  where  he  remained  for  more  than  five 
months.  He  was  seven  months  in  arrears  for  dues. 
Nothing  was  paid  on  his  account  after  he  became  insane. 
He  had  no  legal  guardian  or  committee.  It  was  held, 
under  the  facts  stated,  that  he  should  not  be  suspended. 
(S.  J.  10352,  10487,  10511.) 

770.  A  brother,  to  excuse  his  delinquency  for  dues 
on  the  ground  of  having  made  a  tender,  must  show  such 
a  state  of  facts  as  constitute  a  legal  tender.  (S.  J.  1895, 
p.  73.) 

771.  When  a  brother  was  tried  upon  charges  and 
expelled  by  his  Lodge,  and  upon  his  appeal  was  ordered 
reinstated,  after  the  entry  of  the  order  of  reinstatement 
by  the  appellate  tribunal,  he  must  be  deemd  to  have  been 
in  good  standing  from  the  time  of  his  expulsion  until  the 
order  was  made  for  his  reinstatement.  Prima  facie  the 
judgment  of  the  Trial  Lodge  was  correct,  but  it  is  only 
to  be  so  treated  until,  or  unless,  reversed,  on  an  appeal 
regularly  taken  and  perfected.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  546,  752, 
820.) 

772.  DELINQUENTS    LOST    VOTE.  —  Sec. 

2. — Any  member  who  shall  become  in  arrears 
for  more  than  thirteen  weeks'  dues,  shall  not  be 
entitled  to  vote.    (J.  1895,  p.  209;  See  §  2597  supra.) 

773.  DISCIPLINE.— Sec.  3.— If  any  member 
of  this  Lodge  shall  be  found  guilty  of  conduct  con- 
trary to  the  laws  of  the  Order,  or  in  violation  of  its 
principles,  as  set  forth  in  its  lectures,  charges  and 
obligations,  or  shall  be  found  guilty  of  any  dis- 
honest or  immoral  act  or  practice,  injurious  to  him- 
self or  herself,  his  or  her  family,  or  to  society,  or  by 
which  the  Order  may  be  scandalized,  said  member 
shall  be  subjected  to  such  penalty  as  the  laws  of  the 
jurisdiction  or  the  discretion  of  the  Lodge  may 
prescribe.     (J.  1895,  p.  209.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3.  150 

WHAT  ARE  OFFENSES: 

774.  The  following  named  acts  are  recognized  by 
special  enactments  and  decisions,  or  by  general  laws,  as 
offenses  for  which  an  Odd  Fellow  is  liable  to  penalty; 
general  reference  being  had  to  Willard,  Section  620,  and 
Thornton,  Section  1822.  Special  references  are  also  in- 
dicated: 

(1.)  Conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  which 
may  be,  first,  any  crime,  vice  or  immorality  injurious  to 
the  member  himself,  to  his  family  or  to  society,  or  by 
which  the  Order  may  1)e  scandalized;  or,  second,  any 
violation  of  the  principles  of  the  Order  or  of  its  special 
obligations. 

(2.)  Violation  of  the  obligation  of  secrecy  as  to 
the  work  of  the  Order  or  the  private  business  of  a  Lodge. 

(3.)  Violating  the  secrecy  of  a  ballot.  (See  §  668 
sii2Jra.) 

(4.)  Countenancing  a  spurious  Lodge.  (G.  L.  By- 
Laws,  Art.  II,  Sec.  4.) 

(5.)     The  use  of  unauthorized  work. 

(6.)  Neglecting  the  sick  of  one's  own  or  another 
Lodge;  in  either  case  the  punishment  must  be  the  same. 

(7.)  Misrepresentation  of  age  or  other  fraud  in  ob- 
taining membership. 

(8.)  Using  in  one's  private  business  the  name, 
title,  motoes  or  emblems  of  the  Order,  or  one's  member- 
ship or  official  position  therein. 

(9.)  Publishing  or  circulating  any  unauthorized 
diploma  or  certificate  or  putting  a  Lodge  seal  thereon. 

(10.)  Using  for  one's  self  money  belonging  to  the 
Order  without  permission,  or  withholding  it,  even  with- 
out fraudulent  intent.     (S.  J.  7406,  7478.) 

(11.)  Resistence  to  the  civil  government;  opposing 
the  execution  of  law;  inciting  or  encouraging  others  to 
resist  or  oppose  officers  in  the  execution  of  their  duty; 
preventing  citizens  from  aiding  the  government. 

(12.)  Electioneering  for  office  in  a  Grand  or  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge;  issuing  or  circulating  any  electioneering 
documents. 

(13.)     Playing  cards  or  gaming  for  pecuniary  benefit. 


151  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

(14.)  Drunkenness  or  intoxication.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p. 
797,  871.) 

(IS.)  Contempt  of  a  Lodge,  which  may  be  avoiding 
or  failing  to  obey  its  summons  in  case  of  trial  or  re- 
fusing to  submit  to  a  penalty. 

(16.)  Malicious  information  or  complaint  against  a 
brother.     (See  §  1113.) 

(17.)  Making  or  sharing  in  illegal  distribution  of 
the  funds  or  property  of  a  Lodge. 

(18.)     Abusing  the  charitable  disposition  of  the  Order. 

(19.)  Profession  of  atheism.  Belief  in  the  existence 
of  a  Supreme  Being  is  a  prerequisite  to  admission  to  our 
Order,  and  the  subsequent  denial  of  such  belief  is  one  of 
the  gravest  ofifenses  known  to  the  Order,  and  subjects 
the  offender  to  expulsion.     (J.  VI,  p.  327.) 

(20.)  Becoming  a  saloon-keeper  or  bar-tender.  (S. 
G.  L.  Const.,  Art.  XVI,  Sec.  5.) 

(21.)     Conviction  of  felony  by  the  laws  of  the  land. 

(22.)  Wearing  regalia  to  which  one  is  not  entitled. 
(S.  J.  11351,  11392.) 

(23.)  A  brother  who  beats  his  wife  and  uses  vile 
and  indecent  language  to  her,  in  the  presence  of  his  chil- 
dren, is  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow. 
(S.  J.  XXII,  p.  41,  219,  243.) 

(24.)  Sustaining  illicit  relations  with  a  married 
woman  is  an  offense  which  warrants  expulsion.  (J.  1896, 
p.   132.) 

(25.)  To  maliciously  defame  the  character  of  a 
brother  is  an  offense.  And  in  one  case  the  S.  G.  L.  has 
approved  the  sentence  of  expulsion  as  a  penalty  therefor. 
(S.  J.  XXII,  Report  No.  17,  p.  7,  690,  710.) 

775.  It  is  not  consistent  with  the  rules  of  the  Order 
for  any  one  to  make  use  of  any  writings  relating  to  the 
degrees  or  rank  of  this  Order,  unless  the  same  be  done 
under  the  authority  of  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  1785.) 

776.  It  is  a  gross  violation  of  hiw  for  a  Lodge  to  use 
or  have  in  its  possession  any  work  purporting  to  be  the 
secret  work  of  Odd  Fellowship,  except  that  issued  by  the 
S.  G.  L.,  certified  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  under  seal. 
(S.  J.  14683,  14948,  15019.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 152 

777.  The  changes  in  the  Ritual,  sent  to  the  Grand 
Secretaries  by  order  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  should  be  communi- 
cated by  them  as  fast  as  possible,  and  not  wait  for  the 
session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  but  they  must  not  be  re- 
printed. That  is  the  prerogative  of  the  S.  G.  L.  only. 
The  unwritten  work  can  only  be  communicated  orally. 
(S.  J.  14680,  14973,  15068;  See  §  SUinfra.) 

778.  Any  officer  of  a  Subordinate  or  other  Lodge 
who  may  aid  in  or  permit  the  conferring  of  any  degree 
or  secret  work  other  than  that  provided  for  by  the  exist- 
ing laws  of  "the  Order,  in  any  Lodge  room  within  the 
jurisdiction  of  this  Grand  Body,  or  who  shall  rehearse 
any  such  degrees  or  work  in  the  Lodge  room,  except 
such  authorized  work  prepared  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  is  guilty 
of  a  violation  of  the  laws  of  the  Order.  This  must  not 
be  construed  to  afifect  the  proceedings  in  such  Lodge 
room  by  other  secret  societies  not  under  the  color  of 
Odd  Fellowship.     (S.  J.  4855,  4894,  14683,  14948,  15019.) 

779.  A  member  of  the  Order  in  good  standing,  evi- 
denced by  holding  an  unexpired  visiting  card,  issued  in 
conformity  with  the  laws  of  the  Order  by  his  Lodge  or 
Encampment,  being  in  distress  or  pretending  so  to  be, 
and  needing  money,  and  who,  having  asked  for  and  re- 
ceived from  a  Lodge  or  Encampment,  or  a  member 
thereof,  a  sum  of  money,  under  the  assurance  and  promise 
that  he  will  return  or  repay  the  same  within  a  given  time, 
or  as  soon  as  he  returns  home,  but  who  shall  neglect  to 
do  so  after  a  reasonable  time  thereafter  without  a  satis- 
factory excuse  being  rendered,  shall  be  deemed  guilty 
of  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow;  and  due  notice 
of  such  fact  having  been  ofificially  communicated  to  his 
Lodge  by  the  Lodge  or  Encampment  so  loaning  him  the 
money,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  his  Lodge  to  notify  him  of 
such  indebtedness  or  loan,  and  to  demand  payment  there- 
of; and  if  he  then  refuses  or  neglects  to  pay  the  same, 
his  Lodge  shall  prefer  charges  against  him,  try  him,  and 
if  found  guilty,  and  without  suflficient  mitigating  circum- 
stances, expel  him  from  the  Order.  If  there  be  such 
mitigating  circumstances,  then  impose  such  penalty  as 
the  Lodge  may  deem  best.     (S.  J.  6310,  6326.) 

780.  A  member  acquiring  the  semi-annual  password 
improperly,    and,    by    making    use    of    it,    obtaining    relief 


153  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

from  a  Lodge  of  which  he  is  not  a  member,  is  guilty  of 
a  double  fraud  upon  the  Order,  and  should  be  required 
to  refund  the  amount  received  and  be  punished  by  his 
Lodge  for  the  offense.     (S.  J.   2826,  2832,  6310,  6326.) 

781.  Grand  Bodies  are  required  to  expel  from  their 
own  membership  and  Subordinates  from  the  Order,  any 
member  thereof  who  shall  attach  to  any  chart,  certificate, 
diploma  or  other  document  any  copy  or  impression  of 
the  seal  of  the  S.  G.  L.  or  of  the  seal  of  any  Grand  or 
Subordinate  Lodge  of  which  he  has  not  the  official  use 
and  custody.  The  above  named  bodies  shall  inflict  the 
same  penalty  upon  any  member  knowingly  publishing  or 
circulating  any  diploma  or  certificate  purporting  to  be 
by  authority  of  the  Order  w'hich  is  not  authorized  by 
law.     (S.    J.    4186,    4201.) 

782.  An  officer  of  a  Lodge,  in  addition  to  his  liabil- 
ity to  discipline  as  a  member  of  the  Lodge,  is  also  liable 
to  trial  and  penalty  for  official  misconduct,  or  misconduct 
in  his  duties  as  an  officer,  the  penalty  for  which  de- 
pends upon  local  law  and  the  nature  and  degree  of  the 
offense.  But  if  the  official  misconduct  also  impugns  his 
character  as  a  man  and  an  Odd  Fellow,  he  is  liable  to 
separate  trial  and  penalty,  on  charges  regularly  preferred 
for  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow.  (T-1827;  S.  J. 
1318;  W-626.) 

783.  If  any  member  of  a  Lodge  enters  into  any  oc- 
cupation calculated  to  bring  disgrace  upon  himself  and 
the  Order,  a  Lodge  may  discipline  him  for  offense  against 
the  principles  -of  the  Order.  The  Grand  Lodge  should  in 
any  case  sustain  a  Lodge  in  subjecting  to  its  discipline 
any  member  pursuing  any  occupation  or  business  which, 
in  the  opinion  of  the  Lodge,  damages  its  reputation  and 
scandalizes  the  Order  in  the  place  where  the  Lodge  is 
located.  (J.  1856,  p.  55,  56;  J.  IV,  p.  315,  333;  J.  VL  p. 
585;  J.  1854,  p.  10,  57;  J.  1856,  p.  Ill,  112;  See  also  W-629.) 

784.  When  a  member  of  the  Order  is  convicted  of 
a  crime  and  is  sentenced,  and  is  serving  a  term  in  a  State 
Prison,  charges  shall  be  preferred  against  him  in  the 
Lodge  of  which  he  is  a  member,  and  upon  the  facts  being 
established  and  the  member  fully  identified,  he  must  be 
expelled.     (S.  J.   14580,   14609.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3.  154 

785.  Where  it  is  an  offense  for  a  member  of  the 
Order  to  obtain  credit  expressly  by  reason  of  being  an 
Odd  Fellow,  and  violate  the  terms  of  such  credit,  it  is 
held  that  to  render  a  member  of  a  Lodge  amenable  for  an 
offense  against  the  laws  of  the  Order,  he  must  have  used 
the  fact  of  his  membership  in  some  way  for  the  purpose 
of  fraud  or  imposition.     (S.  J.  12353,  12616,  12652.) 

786.  Embezzlement  is  an  ofifense  against  good  mor- 
als, and  a  crime  and  a  consequent  violation  of  law,  as 
well  those  of  the  State  as  those  of  the  Order,  and  one 
who  is  guilty  thereof  is  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an 
Odd  Fellow.     (S.  J.  13435,  13563.) 

787.  Under  the  provisions  of  Article  XVI,  Sec.  5,  of 
the  S.  G.  L.  Constitution,  a  brother  is  liable  to  charges 
who  not  being  engaged  as  a  saloon-keeper  or  bar-tender 
at  the  time  the  law  was  passed,  has  since  engaged  in  it. 
So  also  when  a  brother  gives  up  the  business  he  cannot 
again  return  to  it  without  violating  the  law.  (S.  J.  14681, 
14948,  15019.) 

788.  A  soldier  in  the  U.  S.  service,  detailed  to  do 
duty  in  the  post  exchange,  may  perform  any  of  the  duties 
assigned  to  him  by  his  superior  officer,  whether  in  the 
beer  or  any  other  department,  and  in  doing  so  is  not  a 
Z)ar-tender,  within  the  meaning  of  Section  5  of  Article 
XVI.  He  is  acting  under  orders  that  he  is  not  at  liberty 
to  disobey.     (S.  J.  14684,  14948,  15019.) 

789.  Professional  gamblers  and  those  selling  intoxi- 
cating liquors  in  violation  of  the  laws  of  the  state  were, 
before  the  adoption  of  this  Constitutional  provision,  sub- 
ject to  discipline  and  expulsion.  (S.  J.  12353,  12616,  12653.) 

790.  When  a  Representative,  attending  the  session 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  shall  be  found  intoxicated, 
the  same  shall  be  reported  to  the  Grand  Master,  who  shall 
immediately  report  the  offending  brother  to  his  Lodge 
and  request  that  he  be  expelled  at  once.     (J.  VIII,  p.  108.) 

791.  It  is  hereby  declared  unlawful  and  an  offense 
against  Odd  Fellowship  for  any  member  to  become  an 
officer  in,  or  agent  for,  any  life  or  accident  insurance 
company  or  association  that  is  now  doing  business,  or 
shall  hereafter  do  business,  in  violation  of  the  laws  of 
this  Order;  or  to  solicit  or  procure,  or  to  assist  in  so- 
liciting or  procuring,  directly  or  indirectly,  by  any  device 


155  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

whatever,  insurance  of  Odd  Fellows  in  any  such  company 
or  association;  and,  "Be  it  further  provided,  that  the  pen- 
alty for  a  conviction  of  the  first  ofifense  as  above  enu- 
merated shall  be  suspension  for  a  period  of  time  not 
exceeding  six  months,  and  for  the  conviction  of  the  second 
offense  the  penalty  shall  be  expulsion  from  the  Order." 
(J.  1900,  p.  120,  253.) 

792.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  by  law  declare  it  "conduct 
unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow"  to  engage  in  the  saloon 
business,  but  it  has  no  power  to  say  that  those  engaged 
in  it  when  said  amendment  was  passed  are  guilty  of  such 
conduct,  and  subject  them  to  it.  A  Grand  Master  cannot, 
under  the  law  excluding  saloon-keepers  from  member- 
ship, change  the  form  or  admission  so  as  to  require  the 
candidate  to  pledge  himself  not  to  engage  in  that  business 
after  admission,  but  the  Grand  Lodge  may.  Although  this 
amendment  takes  from  those  in  the  Order  no  rights  which 
they  were  then  enjoying,  so  long  as  they  continue  to 
use  them,  yet  should  they  at  any  time  give  up  the  business, 
they  cannot  again  resume  it,  as  that  would  be  an  overt 
act,  for  which  they  would  be  liable  to  charges.  (S.  J. 
14681,  14948,  15019.) 

793.  One  who  has  fraudulently  procured  for  himself 
election  and  initiation  into  the  Order  may  be  expelled 
for  such  fraud  after  initiation,  upon  proper  trial.  His 
initiation  cannot  be  made  void.  If  he  fraudulently  mis- 
represents his  age  and  thereby  gains  admission  to  either 
branch  of  the  Order,  or  obtains  thereby  a  reduction  in  fees 
required  by  the  Lodge  or  Encampment,  he  may  be  ex- 
pelled, upon  trial  and  conviction  therefor,  and  even  after 
his  death  the  fact  of  such  fraud  may  be  determined,  after 
due  notice  has  been  given  to  the  representative  or  family 
of  the  deceased,  and,  in  case  it  is  established,  the  Lodge 
or  Encampment  shall  be  discharged  from  all  responsibility 
growing  out  of  his  initiation.     (S.  J.  2146,  2177,  3601,  3679.) 

794.  A  brother  to  whom  a  deceased  member  owed 
money  administered  upon  his  estate.  In  due  course  of 
administration  he  brought  a  suit  against  the  widow  to 
collect  from  her  money  which  she  had  received  from  an 
insurance  policy  as  a  part  of  the  declared  assets  of  the 
estate,  under  the  law,  to  pay  the  debts  of  the  deceased, 
^e^c^.that  this  constitutes  no  offense.     (S.  J.  12556,  12647.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3.  156 

795.  A  passionate  speech  made  under  great  provo- 
cation may  be  justifiable  and  create  no  offense  against  the 
laws  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  14432,  14461.) 

796.  A  member  violates  no  law  or  obligation  in  neg- 
lecting to  answer  letters  written  to  him  by  his  Lodge  in 
reference  to  his  claim  for  benefits,  and  such  neglect  is  no 
ground  upon  which  to  base  a  charge  of  contempt.  (S.  J. 
9684,  9791.) 

797.  No  officer  or  member  of  a  Lodge  has  a  right 
as  such  officer  or  as  such  member,  to  permit  the  use  of 
his  name  in  any  private  business  or  enterprise  in  that  ca- 
pacity. (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  40,  365,  394;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  555,  987, 
1004.) 

798.  The  mere  fact  that  a  brother  accepted  benefits 
which  he  believed  he  was  entitled  to  receive,  and  which 
the  Lodge  paid  without  protestation  and  without  any 
examination  or  report  by  its  Visiting  Committee,  cannot 
constitute  a  fraudulent  receiving  of  benefits,  even  though 
he  might  not  have  been  legally  entitled  to  them.  Some- 
thing more  is  necessary  to  make  out  so  grave  a  charge. 
It  is  necessary  to  say  either  that  the  brother  himself  knew 
he  was  not  entitled  to  benefits  or  that  he  had  knowingly 
misrepresented  his  condition  to  his  Lodge,  and  that  the 
Lodge  had  paid  the  benefits  claimed,  relying  on  such  false 
and  fraudulent  statement.  (J.  1896,  p.  135;  J.  1897,  p.  183; 
J.  1899,  p.  134.) 

799.  When  a  brother  takes  it  upon  himself  to  get  up 
and  advertise  an  Odd  Fellows'  ball,  proceeds,  if  any,  to  go 
to  the  Orphans'  Home  at  Lincoln,  he  is  guilty  of  an 
offense;  but  expulsion  is  too  great  a  penalty  for  such  an 
oft'ense.     (J.  1896,  p.  143,  147.) 

800.  Failing  to  comply  with  a  promise  to  pay  pe- 
cuniary obligations  where  there  is  no  fraud  or  deception 
in  contracting  or  incurring  the  liability,  is  not  an  offense 
against  the  laws  of  the  Order.  (J.  1897,  p.  189,  198;  J. 
1899,  p.  134.) 

801.  Where  a  brother  takes  an  insane  patient  to  the 
state  hospital,  for  which  he  is  paid  by  the  patient's  con- 
servator, and  he  afterwards  files  a  verified  claim  against 
the  county  for  the  same  service,  which  the  county  pays, 
this  amounts  to  fraudulently  obtaining  money,  for  which 
he  may  be  expelled.     (J.  1898,  p.  94.) 


157 R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

802.  It  is  a  violation  of  Section  5,  Article  XVI,  of 
the  S.  G.  L.  Constitution,  for  a  brother  to  open  and  con- 
duct a  saloon,  he  being  at  the  time  a  bar-tender,  rightfully 
and  legally  employed.     (J.  1898,  p.  126.) 

803.  Where  a  brother  in  open  Lodge  accuses  the 
members  of  his  Lodge  of  being  liars  and  perjurers  he 
is  guilty  of  an  offense  which  warrants  his  expulsion.  (J. 
1898,  p.  132.) 

804.  Embezzlement  of  the  funds  of  an  Encampment 
by  its  Treasurer  is  an  ofTense  which  warrants  the  expul- 
sion of  the  offender  by  his  Lodge.     (J.  1901,  p.  141.) 

805.  A  brother  was  indicted  in  the  U.  S.  court  for 
selling  intoxicating  liquors  without  government  license. 
He  was  also  indicted  by  the  Adams  county  circuit  court 
for  selling  liquor  to  habitual  drunkards  contrary  to  law. 
He  pleaded  guilty  to  both  charges  in  said  courts.  Upon 
charges  being  preferred  against  him  in  his  Lodge  he 
entered  his  plea  of  guilty  and  the  Lodge  fixed  the  penalty 
at  reprimand.  HeM,  that  the  character  of  his  offense  was 
so  grave  as  to  require  the  greatest  penalty  allowed  by  our 
laws,  which  is  expulsion.  (J.  1901,  p.  160;  See  §  7S9  supra.) 

806.  Where  a  brother  fails  to  provide  for  his  wife, 
ill  treats  and  abuses  her,  attempts  to  fight  a  brother  of 
his  Lodge  and  makes  threats  to  kill  the  brother,  he  is 
guilty  of  such  conduct  as  warrants  expulsion.  (J.  IX,  p. 
908.) 

807.  Writing  improper  letters  to  the  wife  of  a  brother 
Odd  Fellow  is  conduct  such  as  will  warrant  expulsion. 
(J.  IX,  p.  911.) 

808.  A  member  who  deals  in  liquors  contrary  to  the 
penal  laws  of  the  state  or  county,  is  guilty  of  conduct  un- 
becoming an  Odd  Fellow,  and  is  amenable  to  the  laws 
of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  19,  284,  314.) 

809.  A  member  who  violates  the  penal  laws  of  the 
state  or  county  in  respect  to  gambling,  is  guilty  of  conduct 
unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  and  is  amenable  to  the  laws 
of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  19,  284,  314.) 

810.  Grand  Subordinate  Bodies  and  individuals,  who 
shall  print  and  circulate  any  forms  or  ceremonies  of  the 
S.    G.    L.    that    constitute    the    sources    of    revenue    to    its 


R.  L.  VIIT,  §3.  158 

treasury,  will  be  deemed  guilty  of  an  offense  against  the 
laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  6657,  6704.) 

811.  Any  member  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  who  shall  com- 
pose, or  write,  or  print,  or  sell,  or  exhibit,  or  use,  or  have 
in  his  possession,  or  who  shall  in  any  way  aid  or  abet  in 
composing,  or  writing,  or  printing,  or  exhibiting,  or  using 
any  publication,  or  writing,  or  other  device,  purporting  to 
be  the  unwritten  work  of  Odd  Fellowship,  or  any  part, 
abbreviation,  or  memorandum  of  said  unwritten  work, 
shall  be  deemed  gviilty  of  conduct  grossly  unbecoming 
an  Odd  Fellow,  and  shall,  upon  conviction,  be  expelled 
from  the  Order.     (S.  J.  9751,  9804.) 

This  does  not  apply  to  the  key  issued  by  the  S.  G.  L.  (See 
§    777  supra. — Editor.) 

812.  To  "publish"  the  name  of  an  expelled  member 
of  the  Order,  if  the  word  be  used  in  its  popular  accepta- 
tion, is  a  violation  of  the  secrecy  enjoined  with  respect 
to  the  dealings  of  the  members  with  one  another.  (S.  J. 
2214,  2264,  2327.) 

813.  But  it  is  not  a  violation  of  law  to  publish  in  a 
fraternal  newspaper  the  list  of  expelled  members,  after 
their  promulgation  by  the  Grand  Master.  (S.  J.  15801, 
16098,  16143;  J.  IV,  p.  200,  240.) 

814.  The  use  of  abusive  and  improper  language  in 
the  Lodge  room,  concerning  brothers,  and  refusing  to  de- 
sist when  called  to  order  by  the  Noble  Grand,  is  an  offense 
which  may  warrant  expulsion.     (S.  J.  13430,  13563.) 

815.  Introducing  a  woman  of  bad  repute  to  an  Odd 
Fellows'  festival  by  a  member,  he  having  knowledge  of 
her  character,  is  an  offense  which  may  warrant  expulsion. 
(S.  J.  6609,  6688.) 

816.  An  officer  who  is  entrusted  with  the  keeping  of 
the  funds  of  the  Lodge,  and  who  uses  such  funds  for  his 
own  purposes,  violates  his  obligation  and  is  guilty  of  an 
offense  against  the  laws  of  the  Order.  No  matter  how 
honestly  he  may  have  intended  to  pay  them  back,  the 
offense,  nevertheless,  is  committed.  They  are  trust  funds 
and  must  be  sacredly  kept  for  the  purposes  for  which  they 
are  raised,  and  any  attempt  of  a  Lodge  to  release  a 
Treasurer  from  his  defalcation,  by  taking  property  or  se- 
curity in  lieu  of  the  money,  is  illegal  and  void,  and  it  is  in 
legal   effect  a  donation  of  so  many  dollars    out    of    the 


159  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

treasury  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  9994,  10151;  but  see  §  837 
infra.) 

817.  The  unlawful  refusal  or  neglect  of  a  member  of 
a  Lodge  to  appear  and  answer  to  charges  preferred 
against  him,  or  the  absenting  himself  with  the  evident 
purpose  of  avoiding  the  service  of  notice,  or  any  regular 
summons  from  the  Lodge,  is  contempt,  and  will  render 
such  member  liable  to  expulsion.     (S.  J.  2463,  2483,  2504.) 

818.  Profane  language,  vile  epithets,  coupled  with  a 
demonstrative  manner,  applied  to  a  brother  in  the  Lodge 
room,  is  an  offense  which  warrants  the  expulsion  of  the 
offender.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  786,  846.) 

WHAT  ARE  NOT  OFFENSES: 

819.  The  following  acts  have  been  decided  as  not 
offenses  against  the  Order,  and  to  be  outside  the  juris- 
diction of  a  Lodge,  for  which  it  may  not  bring  a  member 
to  trial  or  inflict  penalty  or  disability.  General  reference 
is  had  to  Willard,  Sec.  627,  and  Thornton,  Sec.  1834. 
Special   references  are  also  indicated: 

(1.)  The  departure  of  an  officer  from  a  Lodge  dur- 
ing session,  provided  the  departure  does  not  involve  neg- 
lect of  duty. 

(2.)  The  taking  of  the  books  of  the  Financial  Sec- 
retary from  the  Lodge  room  for  the  purpose  of  posting 
them. 

(3.)  Trying  to  prevent  the  offering  of  a  petition 
for  membership,  unless  done  maliciously  or  with  fraud. 

(4.)     Opposing  the  election  of  a  candidate. 

(5.)  Casting  a  black  ball  in  a  ballot.  Neither  the 
act  nor  its  reasons  or  motives  can  be  inquired  into.  No 
member  of  the  Order  may  be  required  to  give  his  reason 
for  any  vote  he  may  cast.  There  is  no  law,  rule  or  usage 
in  our  Order  authorizing  an  inquiry  into  the  conduct  of  a 
member  for  casting  a  black  ball.  It  cannot  even  be  de- 
manded of  him  whether  he  has  cast  one.     (S.  J.  2132,  2174.) 

(6.)  Speaking  to  members  of  the  Order  of  trans- 
actions and  proceedings  of  a  Lodge  that  are  not  private 
in   their  nature. 

(7.)  Voting  for  one's  self  in  an  election.  Elections 
are  by  ballot,  and  no  man's  vote  can  be  examined  into. 
See  Section  668. 


R.  L.  VIII.  §3.  160 

(8.)     The    temperate    use    of    stimulating    drinks,    or 

intoxicating  liquors;  but  intemperance  is  contrary  to  the 

cardinal  principles  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  1503,  1504,  1513.) 

(9.)     Failure   of  non-official  members   to  attend   the 

regular  meetings. 

(10.)  Actions  which  are  part  of  political  controver- 
sies generally,  but  there  may  be  exceptions.     (S.  J.  1061.) 

(11.)  The  s'aying  in  debate  that  the  report  of  a  com- 
mittee is  false  in  its  presentation  of  facts  and  its  con- 
clusions. Such  language  is  ground  for  charges  only  when 
uttered  in  malice. 

(12.)  Pecuniary  transactions,  in  which  no  intent  to 
defraud  is  apparent. 

(13.)     Failure  to  pay  one's  dues  to  his  Encampment. 

(14.)  Pecuniary  relations  among  brothers  which  are 
of  a  civil  nature  and  do  not  entail  public  scandal  on  the 
Order,  have  never  been  considered  a  subject  of  legislation, 
and  ought  not  to  be  allowed  to  vex  the  brotherhood.  Such 
matters  are  of  a  strictly  private  nature,  and  though  they 
miay,  and  do  oftentimes,  cause  individual  trouble  and  per- 
sonal enmity,  yet  they  are  generally  of  so  delicate  a  nature 
that  it  would  be  unsafe,  ungenerous  and  injurious  to  give 
them  public  prominence  and  attention.     (S.  J.  6614,  6690.) 

820.  To  charge  that  a  brother  had  played  cards,  is 
not  circulating  a  scandalous  report,  where  no  charge  is 
made  that  the  brother  played  cards  for  gain  or  that  he 
was  gambling.     (J.  1906,  p.  171.) 

821.  It  is  no  ofifense  for  a  member  to  take  the  bene- 
fit of  the  bankruptcy  law.     (J.  1906,  p.  179.) 

822.  An  attempt  to  collect  debts  or  to  enforce  any 
kind  of  pecuniary  obligations,  through  t<he  instrumentality 
of  our  Code  of  trials,  is  subversive  of  justice  and  against 
the  spirit  and  teachings  of  our  Order;  unless,  however, 
the  obligation  was  incurred  through  some  false  pretense, 
or  the  transaction  involves  some  act  of  personal  dis- 
honesty subjecting  the  ofifender  to  a  prosecution  and  con- 
viction under  the  laws  of  the  land.     (S.  J.  8077,  8174.) 

823.  The  machinery  of  our  Order  cannot  be  used  for 
enforcing  the  collection  of  debts  oir  financial  obligations 
between  individual  members.     All  such  matters,  which  are 


161 R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

of  a  strictly  civil  nature,  should  be  submitted  to  the  legal 
institutions  of  the  land  for  adjustment.     (J.  IX,  p.  907.) 

824.  As  a  general  rule,  a  brother  cannot  be  put  on 
trial  for  an  offense  said  to  have  been  committed  prior  to 
his  becoming  a  member  of  the  Order,  unless  the  oflfense 
was  one  not  previously  discovered.  (S.  J.  13782,  14036, 
14070.) 

825.  Persons  who,  from  no  fault  of  their  own,  are 
illegally  initiated  or  inadvertantly  admitted,  cannot  be 
discharged  from  membership  for  that  reason.  (S.  J.  3182, 
3234,  3266.) 

826.  Participation  in  meetings  of  Odd  Fellows  for 
the  purpose  of  considering  the  question  of  organizing  a 
new  Lodge,  to  be  composed  in  part  of  members  of  the 
Lodge  to  which  the  accused  belongs,  who  should  take 
withdrawal  cards  for  that  purpose,  is  not  an  offense 
against  the  Order.     (S.  J.  12553,  12646.) 

827.  An  affidavit  made  in  good  faith  by  the  advice 
and  consent  of  prominent  and  reputable  members  of  the 
Order,  and  for  a  legitimate  purpose,  does  not  constitute 
an  offense.     (S.  J.  8950,  9049.) 

828.  Taking  the  place  of  a  brother  who  has  been 
discharged  for  not  obeying  the  orders  and  directions  of 
his  "boss,"  constitutes  no  offense  of  which  a  Lodge  has 
jurisdiction.      (S.  J.   12094,   12149.) 

829.  The  general  obligation  of  secrecy  refers  pri- 
marily to  Ritualistic  and  such  ofher  matters  as  should 
not  be  spoken  of  to  those  not  members  of  the  Order.  It 
does  not  prohibit  a  brother  from  speaking  of  Lodge  busi- 
ness to  a  member  of  the  Lodge  not  present  at  the  Lodge 
meeting.     (S.  J.  12354,   12632,  12701.) 

830.  The  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge  has  declared  that 
it  "regards  the  practice  of  intemperance,  gambling  and 
profane  swearing  as  immoral  and  impious,"  and  has  di- 
rected its  Subordinates  to  treat  these  practices  as  a  viola- 
tion of  the  laws  of  the  Order.  It  is  held  that  a  single 
instance  of  profane  swearing  does  not  come  within  the 
provisions  above  cited.     (S.  J.  12353,  12616,  12653.) 

831.  The  S.  G.  L.  said  in  1854  that  it  has  passed  no 
law  which  forbids  the  imposition  of  fines  for  non-attend- 
ance of  members  in   Subordinate  Lodges;  but   the   spirit 


R.  L.  VIll,  §3.  162 

of  the  Order  seems  to  be  opposed  to  it.     (S.  J.  2215,  2264, 
2327.) 

802.  In  18.55  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois  struck  from  the 
By-Laws,  provisions  that  required  attendance  of  Lodges  as  a  con- 
dition of  eligibility  to  degrees  and  to  office,  and  all  benefits.  In  1864 
it  was  decided  that  there  was  no  law  forbidding  a  Lodge  to  adopt 
a  By-Law  which  requires  its  members  to  attend  at  least  one  meeting 
in  a  quarter  to  be  considered  in  "good  standing;"  but  it  is  "em- 
phatically" added  that  the  spirit  of  the  Order  is  against  fines  for 
non-attendance.  But  such  By-Law  would  be  improper  for  the  reason 
that  the  S.  G.  L.  has  defined  what  good  standing  in  the  Order  is, 
and  a  Subordinate  cannot,  by  its  action,  give  a  different  meaning  to 
the  term.  But  in  1878  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois  twice  refused 
to  allow  By-Law  provisions  for  fining  non-official  members  who  failed 
to  attend  meetings.      ("W-627. — Note.) 

833.  A  brother  who  edits  a  public  newspaper  must 
have  the  privilege  of  discussing  the  business  of  the  com- 
munity in  which  it  circulates,  and  if  wrong  or  injury  is 
done  to  any  citizen,  the  civil  courts  would  seem  to  be  the 
proper  forum  in  which  to  seek  redress.  Our  Order  will 
not  permit  the  Lodge  room  to  be  used  as  a  means  of 
settling  business  disputes.     (J.  1898,  p.  119.) 

834.  The  refusal  of  a  brother  to  pay  a  debt  due  an- 
other brother  does  not  constitute  sufficient  grounds  for 
preferring  charges  against  him,  when  the  debt  is  barred 
by  the  statute  limitations,  unless  there  appears  some  ele- 
ment of  fraud  or  misrepresentation  in  obtaining  the  credit, 
or  unless  the  loan  was  made  upon  the  fait'h  of  member- 
ship, charges  will  not  lie.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  37,  284,  314.) 

835.  There  is  no  rule  of  Odd  Fellowship  which  pre- 
vents a  brother  from  stigmatizing  as  false  and  corrupt 
any  affidavit  or  other  evidence  to  be  used  against  him, 
unless  it  shall  appear  that  such  charges  are  maliciously 
and  willfully  made,  and  not  justified  by  probable  cause. 
The  mere  notice  by  a  brother  to  the  Noble  Grand  tliat 
he  claims  any  particular  amount  of  benefits  does  not  vio- 
late any  rule  or  law  of  the  Order.  There  must  be  an 
actual  claim  presented  and  an  attempt  made  to  defraud 
the  Lodge  before  a  brother  can  be  held  liable  for  an  in- 
fraction of  his  duty  as  an  Odd  Fellow.  (S.  J.  7022,  7077, 
12559,  12647.) 

836.  If  one  who  is  sick  with  a  chronic  disease  is 
initiated  into  the  Order  on  his  agreement  not  to  claim  or 
receive  benefits,  he  is  not  liable  to  expulsion  for  after- 
wards claiming  and  receiving  them,  and  such  agreement  is 
void  and  he  was  initiated  without  fault.     (S.  J.  4915,  4925.) 


163 R.  L.  VIII,  S3. 

837.  In  a  case  where  the  Treasurer  of  a  Lodge  be- 
came involved  with  financial  difificulties  and  immediately 
informed  the  sureties  on  his  bond,  and  executed  to  them 
a  mortgage  to  secure  them  and  the  Lodge  from  loss, 
which  mortgage  the  Lodge  afterwards  took  by  way  of 
assignment,  and  released  the  sureties,  it  was  held  that  it 
was  improper  to  prefer  charges  against  the  Treasurer 
for  appropriating  the  funds  to  his  own  use,  and  to  con- 
vict him,  the  Lodge  having  made  final  settlement  with 
him  and  he  having  secuied  the  Lodge  against  loss,  show- 
ing that  he  did  not  design  to  defraud  the  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
3262,  3268;  See  §  816  supra.) 

838.  If  a  brother,  believing  himself  to  be  entitled  to 
benefits,  accepts  them,  he  is  guilty  of  no  ofifense  against 
the  Order,  even  though,  as  a  matter  of  fact,  or  a  matter 
of  law,  he  was  not  entitled  to  the  same.  (J.  1896,  p.  135.) 
WHO  SUBJECT  TO  DISCIPLINE: 

839.  A  brother  under  suspension  is  still  a  member  of 
his  Lodge,  although  deprived  of  certain  rights  and  privi- 
leges, and  is  subject  to  its  laws  in  relation  to  discipline 
for  unworthy  conduct.     (S.  J.  1502,  1513.) 

840.  If  the  holder  of  an  unexpired  withdrawal  card 
is  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  it  is  the 
duty  of  any  member  of  the  Lodge  that  granted  the  card, 
upon  knowledge  of  such  conduct,  to  file  information  with 
the  Noble  Grand,  as  if  the  holder  of  the  card  were  still 
a  member  of  the  Lodge.  Such  information  is  dealt  with 
as  if  against  a  member  of  the  Lodge.  If  the  committee 
reports  charges,  the  Lodge  must  forthwith  annul  the  card. 
It  is  not  necessary  to  prove  charges  before  annulment. 
(J.  VI,  p.  65;  S.  J.  1246,  1722,  1797,  2145,  2177,  9159,  9324, 
9442;  J.  1892,  p.  390.) 

841.  Persons  admitted  to  membership  since  1895, 
who  were  and  still  are  engaged  in  the  saloon  business, 
are  subject  to  discipline.  It  is  no  defense  to  charge  that 
these  members  were  ignorant  of  the  ineligibility  and  made 
no  concealment  of  their  business,  or,  that  the  business  in 
which  they  were  engaged  was  known  to  the  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
XXII,  p.  424,  675,  709.) 

842.  Under  the  laws  of  the  Order  a  Lodge  is  com- 
pelled to  prefer  charges  against  a  member  who  has  be- 
come a  bar-tender.     (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  37,  219,  239,  253.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3.  164 

843.  Where  a  brother  has  finally  and  entirely  severed 
his  connection  with  the  Order  by  resignation  of  member- 
ship, he  is  no  longer  in  any  respect  subject  to  the  juris- 
diction of  the  Lodge,  and  charges  may  not  be  preferred 
against  him  after  such  resignation.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  728, 
745.) 

THE  RIGHT  TO  TRIAL: 

844.  The  right  to  an  impartial  trial  is  given  by  our 
laws  to  every  brother,  except  for  non-payment  of  dues. 
A  brother  cannot  be  punished  by  reprimand,  suspen- 
sion or  expulsion,  except  upon  conviction  by  his  Lodge 
upon  charges  duly  preferred.  The  brother  accused  is 
entitled  to  be  present  during  all  the  proceedings  except 
when  the  penalty  is  decided  upon,  to  have  such  notice  of 
the  charges  and  time  of  trial,  as  will  permit  him  to  prop- 
erly prepare  his  defense,  and  the  proceedings  of  such 
meeting,  and  the  actions  of  the  Lodge  should  appear  on 
the  record  of  the  Lodge,  so  that  the  rights  of  all  inter- 
ested may  be  protected.     (S.  J.  14896,  14919.) 

845.  A  person  admitted  into  the  Order  who  is  un- 
worthy of  membership  can  be  expelled  only  after  a 
proper  trial  upon  charges  duly  preferred  and  investigated. 
The  initiation  may  not  be  declared  void.  (S.  J.  1475, 
1511.) 

846.  Members  under  suspension  are  under  the  juris- 
diction of  the  Lodge,  and  liable  to  further  punishment 
for  misconduct  during  suspension.  When  a  member  has 
been  dropped  for  non-payment  of  dues,  his  connection 
with  the  Lodge  is  not  entirely  severed,  and  he  is  still 
under  its  jurisdiction;  charges  can  be  preferred  against 
him,  and  he  can  be  tried  and  punished.  If  charges  were 
pending  against  him  at  the  time  of  dropping,  the  trial 
must  proceed.  It  is  not  only  the  right,  but  the  duty  of 
the  Lodge  to  try  and  punish  dropped  members  who  have 
become  notoriously  disreputable.  (S.  J.  9856;  J.  Ill,  p. 
247;  J.  V,  p.  685.) 

847.  Tn  Illinois,  dropping  foi'  non-payment  of  dues,  takes  the 
place  of  indefinite  suspension  for  non-payment  of  dues,  and  such 
dropped  persons  stand  in  the  same  relation  to  the  jurisdiction  of  the 
Lodge  as  under  former  laws,  or  general  laws,  persons  stand  when 
suspended  for  non-payment  of  dues.  This  appears  in  the  enactment 
of  the  S.  G.  L.  in  1870  on  non-payment,  wherein  the  words  "sus- 
pended or  dropped"  are  used  several  times,  evidently  as  equivalent 
terms;  and  "suspension"  is  used  to  refer  to  the  action  of  the  Lodge, 
which  has  before  been  expressed  by  "suspended  or  dropped." 
(W-617. — Note.) 


165 R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

848.  An  insane  person,  incapable  of  performing  any- 
intelligent  act,  cannot  be  expelled  from  the  Order  for  an 
infraction  of  its  rules,  and  consequently  charges  may  not 
be  brought  against  him  and  sustained.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24, 
365,  394.) 

849.  The  costumes  used  in  conferring  degrees  form  a 
part  of  the  paraphernalia  belonging  to  the  secret  work, 
and  it  is  improper  to  make  a  public  display  of  them.  (S. 
J.  11892,  12217,  12281.) 

850.  A  Lodge  may  not  be  made  the  agency  for  the 
collection  of  debts  by  means  of  disciplinary  proceedings 
had  therein.     (J.  1896,  p.  109.) 

851.  Where  the  Grand  Master  makes  complaint 
against  a  brother  or  orders  that  charges  be  preferred 
against  him,  this  complaint  or  order  should  be  referred 
to  an  Investigating  Committee  as  other  charges.  The 
Lodge  Deputy  has  no  authority  to  bring  in  the  charges. 
(J.  IX,  p.  897.) 

852.  When  the  holder  of  a  withdrawal  card  has 
within  a  few  months  after  its  issue  deposited  the  same  in, 
and  thereby  become  a  member  of  another  Lodge,  the 
Lodge  issuing  the  card  has  no  power  to  annul  it.  (S.  J. 
3030,  3083,  3113.) 

853.  A  brother  cannot  be  punished  by  reprimand, 
suspension  (save  for  non-payment  of  dues)  or  expulsion, 
except  upon  conviction  by  his  Lodge  upon  charges  duly 
preferred.     (S.  J.  5486,  5528,  5549.) 

854.  A  Past  Grand,  under  charges,  is  not  entitled  to 
a  trial  by  a  committee  composed  entirely  of  Past  Grands, 
as  a  jury  of  his  peers.  The  Scarlet  Degree  is  the  highest 
degree  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  one  of  that  degree  is 
the  peer  of  any  other  member  of  the  Lodge,  and  qualified 
to  sit  on  any  trial  committee  selected  by  the  Lodge.  (S. 
J.  11482,  11719,  11769.) 

855.  Except  in  a  case  of  contempt,  a  Lodge  can  sever 
the  connection  of  one  of  its  members  with  itself  only  by 
sentence  after  fair  trial  upon  the  charges.     (J.  Ill,  p.  98.) 

CHARGES  BARRED  BY  LAPSE  OF  TIME: 

856.  Unless  there  are  circumstances  which  take  the 
case  out  of  the  ordinary  rules,  an  oflfense  alleged  to  have 
been  committed  ten  to  fourteen  years  before  the  prefer- 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3.  166 

ment  of  charges  would  not  be  a  proper  subject  for  charges, 
owing  to  the  lapse  of  time.     (S.  J.  12354,  12616,  12652.) 

857.  In  the  absence  of  local  law,  three  years  does 
not  bar  the  right  to  prosecute  a  member  for  an  offense. 
(S.  J.  14248,  14487,  145>0.) 

858.  In  cases  of  a  criminal  or  quasi-crimmal  nature, 
charges  arc  barred  by  the  lapse  of  time  when  not  made 
until  seventeen  years  after  the  commission  of  the  offense. 
When  there  is  an  express  provision  in  the  law  on  the 
subject,  charges  must  be  presented  within  the  prescribed 
time.     (S.  J.  11687,  11702,  12570,  12649.) 

859.  In  1879  an  appeal  was  dismissed.  In  1881  a 
memorial  was  presented  asking  that  the  case  be  opened 
and  retried.  Held,  that  except  for  fraud  or  mistake  and 
due  diligence  used  to  correct  it,  the  case  could  not  be 
reopened,  and  the  application  was  refused.  (S.  J.  8738, 
8798;  S.  J.  XXII,  p.  266,  290.) 

860.  The  bar  of  the  (state)  statute  of  limitations 
does  not  apply  to  Odd  Fellowship.  The  spirit  of  frater- 
nity, which  should  actuate  all  dealings  between  a  Lodge 
and  its  members,  should  banish  all  such  harsh  measures 
as  become  necessary  in  the  laws  of  the  state.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  864,  914,  915.) 

861.  The  laws  of  the  Order  prescribe  no  fixed  limit- 
ations of  time  within  which  charges  must  be  filed.  (J. 
1899,  p.  121.) 

862.  When  the  acts  charged  were  committed  in  the 
heat  of  passion  and  under  great  excitement  seven  years 
prior  to  the  preferment  of  charges.  Id,  that  the  Lodge 
is  estopped  from  maintaining  charges.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
275,   313.) 

ONCE  IN  JEOPARDY: 

863.  The  defendant  having  been  once  put  upon  his 
trial  and  a  penalty  imposed,  cannot  again  be  called  upon 
to  defend  himself  against  the  same  charge.  (S.  J.  14439, 
14471.) 

864.  A  brother  cannot  be  tried  twice  for  the  same 
offense,  even  if,  subsequent  to  his  acquittal  by  the  Lodge, 
he  shall  be  found  guilty  by  the  courts.  (J.  Ill,  p.  247; 
J.  1853,  p.  39,  40.) 

865.  The  defendant,  upon  charges  and  specifications, 


167  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

immediately  after  the  obligation  of  the  commissioner  to 
take  evidence,  shall  be  considered  to  be  in  jeopardy,  and 
charges  and  specifications  cannot  be  changed,  nor  can  a 
new  charge  be  preferred  for  the  same  offense  after  that 
time.     (T-1880.) 

866.  The  trial,  strictly  speaking,  commences  only 
when  the  commissioner  is  obligated.  A  case  remanded 
for  new  trial  is  one  and  the  same  cause,  and  the  former 
trial  cannot  be  pleaded  in  bar  of  the  new  trial  awarded. 
(T-1880a.) 

867.  To  sustain  a  plea  of  once  in  jeopardy,  the  evi- 
dence must  show  that  the  record  relied  upon  was  made 
upon  charges  regularly  preferred.      (J.   1896,  p.   105,   106.) 

868.  A  member  cannot  be  twice  put  in  jeopardy. 
(J.  1899,  p.  123,  207.) 

To  constitute  jeopardy  (according  to  the  law  of  the  land)  it  is 
neeessarj'  that  there  be  a  real  controversy  between  a  real  member 
and  a  regular  Lodge ;  that  charges,  which  state  an  ofifense  against 
the  Order,  be  regularly  preferred  in  a  regular  Lodge  against  a  legal 
member,  and  that  the  Lodge  in  which  the  charges  are  preferred  have 
jurisdiction  of  the  person  of  the  member  and  the  subject  matter  of 
the  charges.  Furthermore,  the  proceedings  must  be  advanced  to  the 
stage  where  the  commissioner  is  obligated.  Should  the  charges  be 
dismissed  for  want  of  formality  or  because  they  do  not  state  an 
offense,  or  for  want  of  jurisdiction,  or  for  any  other  reason  prior  to 
the  case  going  to  the  commissioner,  the  member  has  not  been  in 
jeopardy,  and  the  dismissal  will  not  bar  proceedings  under  subsequent 
charges  alleging  the  same  offense. —  (Editor.) 

869.  A  brother  cannot  write  a  letter  or  verbally 
make  a  confession  of  misconduct,  have  a  judgment  of 
suspension  based  thereon,  and  afterwards  plead  this  sus- 
pension as  a  bar  to  proceedings  against  him  under  charges 
alleging  the  same  ofifense  as  that  set  up  in  his  written 
or  verbal  confession  of  misconduct.     (J.  1896,  p.  105,  106.) 

870.  Where  charges  have  been  regularly  preferred 
in  a  Lodge  having  jurisdiction  and  a  judgment  rendered 
in  the  Trial  Lodge  fixing  a  penalty,  from  which  the  ac- 
cused prays  and  perfects  an  appeal  to  the  Committee  on 
Judiciary  and  Appeals,  and  afterwards  the  case  is  regu- 
larly taken  on  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  where,  by  con- 
sent of  parties,  the  appeal  is  dismissed,  the  proceedings 
constitute  once  in  jeopardy,  or  res  ad  judicata  dind  further 
proceedings  may  not  be  had  thereon.  (J.  1904,  p.  176, 
303;  S.  J.  XXII,  p.  266,  290.) 

JURISDICTION: 

87L  A  brother  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an 
Odd   Fellow   in   a   Rebekah    Lodge   may   be   tried   in   that 


R.  L.  VIII,  §3.  168 

Lodge,  or  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge.  If  tried  in  his  Lodge, 
Rebekahs  may  appear  before  the  Trial  Committee  and 
give  testimony.  (S.  J.  14248,  14487,  14570;  See  §  881 
infra.) 

872.  Redre.ss  for  grievances  connected  with  Odd 
Fellowship  should  be  sought  in  the  tribunals  of  the  Or- 
der, and  neither  a  Subordinate  body  nor  a  member  there- 
of should  appeal  to  the  civil  courts  until  all  remedies  pro- 
vided by  the  Order  have  been  exhausted.  The  general 
law  does  not  require  a  brother  to  exhaust  his  remedies 
in  the  Order  before  resorting  to  the  civil  courts.  If  the 
Constitution  or  By-Laws  of  his  Lodge  require  it,  he  must 
do  so,  in  order  to  gain  a  standing  in  court,  as  they  form 
his  contract  with  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  13782,  14036,  14070, 
14678,  14948,  15019.) 

873.  When  charges  are  brought  against  the  holder 
of  an  unexpired  withdrawal  card,  the  Lodge  should  not 
reconsider  or  rescind  the  vote  granting  it,  but  should 
forthwith  annul  it  or  revoke  it,  which  action  brings  the 
brother  back  into  the  Lodge  for  trial.  (S.  J.  1841,  1896, 
1952,  2145,  2177;  J.  1892,  p.  390.) 

874.  One  Lodge  cannot  try  a  member  of  another 
Lodge,  except  upon  change  of  venue,  nor  exclude  him 
from  fellowship,  nor  pass  a  vote  of  censure  upon  him. 
No  brother  can  be  punished  by  any  other  than  his  own 
Lodge,  or  the  Grand  Lodge;  much  less  may  it  declare  a 
sentence  of  expulsion  without  trial.  The  only  proper 
course  for  a  Lodge  or  a  member  to  pursue,  in  cases  where 
members  of  other  Lodges  are  regarded  unworthy,  is  to 
prefer  charges  against  them  in  pursuance  of  the  well- 
established  principles  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  2759,  2783.) 

875.  An  Encampment  cannot  expel  from  the  Order, 
only  from  its  own  body;  hence,  trials  should,  if  possible, 
be  had  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge,  as  loss  of  membership 
in  a  Subordinate  Lodge  severs  connection  with  an  En- 
campment.    (S.  J.  4467,  4598,  4614.) 

876.  The  holder  of  an  unexpired  withdrawal  card 
retains  the  right  to  prefer  charges  for  unworthy  conduct 
against  a  member  of  his  Lodge  during  the  year  for  which 
the  card  extends.     (S.  J.  2561,  2629,  2664.) 

877.  No  person  on  being  admitted  to  membership  in 
the  Order  loses  any  rights  he  had  in  possession  as  a  citi- 


169  R.  L.  VIII,  §3. 

zen.  His  right  to  protection  by  the  civil  authorities  re- 
mains the  same,  and  the  laws  of  the  land,  and  the  courts 
which  administer  them,  are  the  surest  and  most  proper 
means  by  which  justice  can  be  obtained.  There  should 
be  no  attempt  to  adjudicate  such  questions  of  differences 
by  any  authorities  within   the  Order.     (S.  J.  3252,  3267.) 

878.  Members  should  not  be  held  amenable  to  pen- 
alties of  the  Order  for  a  failure  to  comply  with  promises 
to  pay  pecuniary  obligations.  Grievances  of  this  char- 
acter are  properly  referable  to  the  courts  of  competent 
jurisdiction  for  a  full  and  complete  remedy.  An  attempt 
to  collect  debts  or  to  enforce  any  kind  of  pecuniary  obli- 
gation, through  the  instrumentality  of  trials,  is  subversive 
of  justice,  and  against  the  spirit  and  teachings  of  our 
Order,  unless  the  obligation  was  incurred  through  some 
false  or  fraudulent  pretense  or  transaction,  which  involves 
some  act  of  personal  dishonesty,  subjecting  the  offender 
to  a  prosecution  and  conviction  under  the  laws  of  the 
land.     (S.  J.  8076,  8174.) 

879.  A  Lodge  has  no  jurisdiction  to  enforce  the  col- 
lection of  debts,  and  the  fact  that  the  disputed  claim  is 
against  the  Lodge  instead  of  an  individual  cannot  change 
the  principle.     (S.  J.  13431,  13563.) 

880.  A  brother  was  expelled  from  his  Lodge  and 
then  commenced  a  suit  to  recover  benefits  which  he 
claimed  his  due  from  his  Lodge,  which  claim  was  based 
on  the  favorable  report  of  two  committees  of  the  Lodge, 
appointed  to  especially  investigate  the  claim.  His  ex- 
pulsion was  reversed,  on  appeal  to  his  Grand  Lodge,  and 
he  was  reinstated  in  all  his  rights  as  a  member.  He  im- 
mediately withdrew  his  suit  in  the  courts,  paid  all  the 
costs,  and  began  proceedings  in  his  Lodge  to  secure  his 
benefits.  It  is  inferred,  though  the  report  does  not  so 
state,  that  he  was  expelled  a  second  time,  inferentially 
for  bringing  the  suit,  which  expulsion  was  sustained  by 
his  Grand  Lodge,  on  appeal.  It  was  held  by  the  S.  G.  L. 
that  the  action  of  the  Grand  Lodge  should  be  reversed 
and  the  brother  reinstated  to  full  membership.  (S.  J. 
12101,  12153.) 

881.  Charges  may  be  preferred  to  a  Subordinate 
Lodge  against  one  of  its  members  for  conduct  unbecom- 
ing an  Odd  Fellow,  wherever  the  offense  may  have  been 


R.  L.  VIII.  §4. 170 

committed,  whether  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  in  an  Encamp- 
ment, or  elsewhere.  (S.  J.  11103,  11368,  11396;  See  §  871 
supra.) 

882.  It  is  not  only  legal  for  a  Subordinate  Lodge  to 
entertain,  permit  or  allow,  charges  to  be  broug'ht  against 
a  member  who  has  an  application  for  a  dismissal  certifi- 
cate before  it,  after  five  years  from  the  date  of  suspension, 
but  it  is  the  duty  of  the  Lodge  to  try  such  charges.  (S. 
J.  9856,  10105,  10176.) 

883.  A  Lodge  has  jurisdiction  to  try  a  member,  who, 
against  a  law  of  the  Constitution  for  Subordinate  Lodges 
in  that  jurisdiction,  shall  divulge  to  an  applicant  for  mem- 
bership the  name  of  a  brother  who  reported  unfavorably, 
or  otherwise  opposed  the  admission  of  such  applicant, 
and  the  Lodge  should  proceed  to  such  trial  upon  proper 
charges.  And  if  the  ofifense  is  tried  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge, 
the  Subordinate  Lodge  should  not  wait  until  the  offender 
has  been  arraigned  and  tried  in  the  Rebekah  Lodge,  if 
the  same  Constitution  governs  the  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S. 
J.  XX,  p.  40,  389,  413.) 

884.  COMPLAINT  IN  WRITING.— Sec.  4.— 

If  any  member  of  this  Lodge  shall  have  reason 
to  believe  that  any  other  has  been  guilty  of  conduct 
unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  as  shown  in  the  pre- 
ceding section,  it  shall  be  such  member's  duty  im- 
mediately to  give  notice  of  such  violation  or  offense, 
in  writing,  to  the  Noble  Grand.  The  Noble  Grand 
shall  forthwith  refer  a  copy  of  such  written  com- 
munication (concealing  the  name  of  the  informant) 
to  a  special  committee  of  three  members,  which 
committee  shall  proceed,  without  delay,  to  investi- 
gate the  matter  therein  stated ;  and  if,  in  their 
opinion,  there  is  jtist  ground  therefor,  as  early  as 
practicable,  prefer  a  charge  or  charges  against  the 
member  so  accused,  specifying  therein  the  particular 
matter  of  offense  which  is  charged ;  and  the  com- 
mittee shall  have  charge  of  the  prosecution  on  the 
part  of  the  Lodge.     (J.  1895,  p.  209.) 


171  R.  L.  VIII,  §4. 

885.  A  sister  may  prefer  charges  against  a  brother 
of  a  Subordinate  Lodge  in  her  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
15754,  16071,  16116.) 

886.  If  an  Outside  Guardian  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
admits  one  to  the  ante-room  who  is  not  a  member  of  the 
Order,  she  commits  an  oflfense  for  which  she  may  be  ex- 
pelled.    (J.   1898,  p.  102.) 

887.  It  is  an  offense,  subject  to  expulsion,  on  con- 
viction, for  any  ofificer  or  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
to  commit  to  writing,  in  full  or  in  cipher,  any  portion  of 
the  Ritual.     (J.  1901,  p.  16,  270,  294.) 

THE  COMPLAINT: 

888.  The  notice  of  ofifense,  given  in  writing  by  the 
informant  to  the  Noble  Grand,  should  contain  a  state- 
ment of  the  alleged  ofifense,  with  the  names  of  witnesses 
to  substantiate  the  complaint,  and  be  signed  by  the  in- 
formant. This  paper  and  its  contents  are  properly  styled 
a  complaint  or  information.  To  call  it  "charges"  is 
wrong.  It  need  not  be  in  any  particular  form.  It  is 
sufficient  if  it  states  that  the  informant  has  reason  to  be- 
lieve, and  does  believe,  that  the  accused  (name  him)  has 
been  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  and 
state  in  what  the  conduct  consists,  in  general  terms, 
giving  the  names  of  witnesses  and  source  of  evidence, 
and  is  signed  by  the  informant.  (J.  1856,  p.  22,  126;  J. 
Ill,  p.  240.) 

889.  The  name  of  an  informant  is,  except  in  cas-i 
of  open  information,  a  secret  pertaining  to  the  office  of 
N.  G.,  and  should  that  officer  retire  from  the  chair  dur- 
ing the  pendency  of  an  investigation  or  trial,  by  expira- 
tion of  term,  or  from  any  other  cause,  he  should  com- 
municate that  "secret"  to  his  successor,  in  order  that  it 
may  be  officially  delivered  up  to  the  Lodge,  should  it  be 
found  necessary  to  prosecute  the  informing  brother  for 
having  made  an  unfounded,  false  and  malicious  accu- 
sation. A  brother,  who  has  been  tried  and  acquitted  on 
charges,  has  no  right  to  demand  the  name  of  an  inform- 
ant. The  Noble  Grand  can  give  it  only  on  demand  of 
a  majority  of  members  present,  and  for  the  Constitu- 
tional  reason  only.     (J.   Ill,  p.   160,   193,  487,  515.) 

890.  A  brother  holding  an  unexpired  withdrawal 
card  may  prefer  complaint  for  unworthy  conduct  against 


R.  L.  VIII,  §4. 172 

a  member  of  his  Lodge  during  the  year  for  which   such 
card   extends.     (S.  J.   2561,  2629,   2664.) 

891.  A  brother,  who  is  himself  under  charges,  may 
file  a  complaint.  A  brother  who  has  deposited  an  infor- 
mation with  the  Noble  Grand  may  not  withdraw  it  unless 
entirely  satisfied  that  the  complaint  is  false.  (J.  Ill,  p. 
161,  193;  J.  1856,  p.  43.) 

892.  When  a  Noble  Grand  has  been  guilty  of  an 
offense  against  the  laws  of  the  Order,  information  thereof 
should  be  given  to  the  Vice  Grand,  who  will  privately 
appoint  the  Committee  of  Investigation.  Should  such 
committee  prefer  charges,  the  Vice  Grand  should  take 
the  chair,  and  continue  to  act  as  Noble  Grand  whenever 
the  charges  or  the  trial,  or  any  business  relating  to  them, 
is  before  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  4716,  4842,  4870;  J.  Ill,  p. 
158,  193.) 

893.  Proceedings  against  an  officer  for  official  mis- 
conduct do  not  begin  by  the  filing  of  information  and  the 
preferring  of  charges,  as  in  case  of  conduct  unbecoming, 
but  the  proper  method  of  proceeding  is  to  ofifer  a  reso- 
lution that  the  officer  be  cited  to  appear  at  a  specified 
regular  meeting  and  answer  to  a  charge,  specifying  official 
misconduct  in  certain  action  or  neglect  of  action;  and, 
after  the  adoption  of  such  resolution,  the  methods  and 
rules  of  other  trials  have  force  as  far  as  applicable.  When 
the  Noble  Grand  of  a  Lodge,  in  his  official  capacity,  per- 
sistently violates  law  and  usage,  the  proper  course  to  be 
pursued  is  to  proceed  against  him  for  "official  miscon- 
duct," and  let  the  Vice  Grand  preside  during  his  trial. 
If  found  guilty,  he  may  be  removed  from  the  oflfice  by 
vote  of  the  Lodge.     (J.  Ill,  p.  158,  193,  268.) 

894.  There  is  no  law  or  usage  by  which  a  Grand 
Patriarch  in  his  official  capacity  can  prefer  charges  to  a 
Subordinate  Lodge  against  one  of  its  members,  nor  of 
any  rule  by  which  a  member  of  one  Lodge  can  prefer 
charges  against  a  member  of  another  Lodge.  The  official 
position  of  the  accused  may  be  set  forth  in  connection 
with  the  charge.  A  Grand  Master  is  not  under  obliga- 
tions to  forward  charges  presented  to  him  by  a  Grand 
Patriarch  against  a  member  of  one  of  its  Subordinates,  or 
become  an  accuser;  but  if  the  Lodge  to  which  the  accused 
belongs  refuses  to  entertain  charges  which  may  be  trans- 


173  R.  L.  VIII,  §4. 

mitted  to  them  duly  certified,  or  to  try  the  accused,  it  is 
then  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Master,  on  being  notified  of 
the  facts,  by  the  Grand  Patriarch  or  the  accuser,  to  re- 
quire the  Lodge  to  do  its  duty  in  that  regard.  (S.  J. 
10714,  10951,  11005.) 

895.  FORM    OF    APPOINTMENT    OF 

COMMITTEE. 

Hall  of Lodge,  No , 

I.  O.  O.  F.,  ,  111., 190.... 

To  Brothers  A.  B.  and  C.  D.  of  said  Lodge: 

Complaint  in  writing,  in  due  form,  having  been  made 
to  the  undersigned  that  Brother  L.  M.  of  said  Lodge  has 
committed  an  offense  against  the  laws  of  the  Order,  yju 
are  hereby  appointed  the  committee  to  investigate  the 
matter;  on  your  acceptance  hereof,  a  copy  of  the  com- 
plaint, with  the  names  of  the  witnesses,  will  be  given  you. 

Please  proceed  promptly  with  the  investigation,  but 
with  due  care  and  caution,  and  report  the  facts  to  me 
with  all  convenient  speed. 

Fraternally, 

,  N.  G. 

(T-18536) 

896.  The  appointment  of  a  committee  to  investigate 
rumors  regarding  the  conduct  of  a  brother  in  good  stand- 
ing, contrary  to  his  wishes,  and  prior  to  information 
against  him,  according  to  law,  is  illegal.  (S.  J.  8351, 
8440.) 

897.  An  ex  parte  examination  of  the  conduct  of  a 
brother  is  allowable  when  demanded  by  the  party  inter- 
ested, or  by  a  friend  authorized  by  him.     (J.  1856,  p.  172.) 

898.  A  complaint  privately  filed  with  the  Noble 
Grand  is  referred  to  a  committee  appointed  by  him,  and 
unless  they  find  evidence  sufficient  on  which  to  base  a 
charge  or  charges,  they  should  so  report  privately  to  the 
Noble  Grand.  The  proceedings  had  upon  such  complaint 
are  ea;par^e,  and  unless  charges  are  brought  by  the  com- 
mittee, the  matter  should  remain  a  secret  with  the  Noble 
Grand  and  Investigating  Committee.  No  report  should 
be  made  to  the  Lodge,  and  no  action  can  be  taken  by  the 
Lodge.    (J.  VI,  p.  155.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §4.  174 

899.  The  rule  which  the  S.  G.  L.  applies  to  the  Trial 
Committee  must,  in  Illinois,  apply  to  the  Prosecuting 
Committee.  Neither  the  Noble  Grand  nor  the  Vice 
Grand  should  be  on  the  committee,  as  he  may  be  called 
on  to  preside.     (S.  J.  7024,  7077;  T-1867;  W-651.) 

900.  If  the  committee,  to  whom  a  complaint  is  re- 
ferred, is  absent  when  their  report  is  expected,  that  is  not 
sufficient  reason  for  dismissing  the  complaint.  The  Con- 
stitution does  not  fix  a  time  when  the  report  of  the  com- 
mittee shall  come  in.     (J.  VI,  p.  156,  157.) 

901.  Whenever  the  members  of  a  committee  feel 
themselves  incompetent  to  conduct  a  trial,  they  should 
be  permitted  to  call  to  their  assistance  any  brother  skilled 
in  law,  rules  of  evidence,  etc.     (J.  V,  p.  314,  358,  362.) 

902.  The  decisions  of  Investigating  Committees,  ap- 
pointed upon  information  given  to  the  Noble  Grand,  are 
final;  and  no  member  of  the  Lodge  has  a  right  to  appeal 
from  such  decision.  There  are  actually  no  charges  pre- 
ferred or  pending  for  the  action  of  the  Lodge  until  the 
committees  report.  The  minority  of  a  committee  on 
investigation  upon  a  charge,  desiring  to  submit  a  report, 
must  present  it  to  the  same  meeting  of  the  Lodge  that 
receives  the  report  of  the  majority;  otherwise  the  privi- 
lege to  submit  a  minority  report  at  all  is  forfeited.  (J. 
1856,  p.  22,  126;  J.  Ill,  p.  24,  42,  162,  193.) 

903.  The  Prosecuting  Committee  must  secure  for 
the  prosecution  all  material  evidence  within  their 
knowledge.  A  member  who  has  been  dropped  for  non- 
payment of  dues,  or  suspended  for  ofifense,  may  be  sum- 
moned as  a  witness  during  his  suspension.  (J.  Ill,  p.  240; 
J.  IV,  p.  240,  242;  J.  V,  p.  485,  553,  584.) 

904.  A  bargain  between  a  Lodge  or  Committee  on 
Investigation  and  a  member  under  charges,  whereby  the 
labors  of  the  Lodge  or  committee  are  lightened  and  un- 
faithful members  (oft  times)  escape  merited  punishment, 
is  subversive  of  the  principles  of  justice,  and  cannot  be 
too  strongly  reprehended.  But  a  failure  on  the  part  of 
an  accused  brother  to  carry  out  such  an  agreement  is  not 
an  ofifense  which  calls  for  expulsion  from  membership  in 
the  Order,  because  the  agreement  was  illegal  and  frau- 
dulent, and  neither  party  can  be  held  to  its  performance. 
(S.  J.  XXII,  p.  240,  266.) 


175  R.  L.  VITI,  §4. 

905.  It  is  an  error  to  nominate  a  trial  or  prosecuting 
committee  from  the  floor  of  the  Lodge  when  the  By-Laws 
require  such  committee  shall  be  appointed  by  the  Noble 
Grand.     (S.  J.  8083,  8175.) 

906.  Under  the  same  rule,  a  Vice  Grand  cannot  ap- 
point a  trial  committee  or  prosecuting  committee,  al- 
though ordered  to  do  so  by  the  Lodge  (unless  the  charges 
be  against  the  Noble  Grand.     (S.  J.  10862.  10902.) 

907.  A  trial  or  prosecuting  committee  cannot  ap- 
point a  person  not  a  member  of  the  Order  as  stenographer 
or  typewriter  to  report  the  evidence  in  cases.  (S.  J. 
15175,  15534,  15584.) 

908.  A  brother  who  files  a  complaint  with  the  Noble 
Grand  of  a  Lodge  charging  another  brother  with  con- 
duct unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  should  not  be  placed 
on  the  Investigating  or  Prosecuting  Committee.  (J. 
1895,  p.  74,  75;  J.  V,  p.  751.) 

THE  CHARGES: 

909.  It  is  the  duty  of  a  Lodge  to  investigate  charges 
that  may  be  brought,  and  to  use  every  endeavor  to  ar- 
rive at  the  true  state  of  facts,  and  to  place  the  same 
on  record  in  an  intelligible  manner,  so  that  an  entire 
stranger  to  the  facts  can  understand  the  merits  of  the 
case,  as  well  as  the  Lodge  which  acted  thereon.  The 
record  must  be  full,  complete  and  accurate.  (J.  VI,  p. 
471,  551,  574,  599.) 

910.  The  following  form  for  the  report  of  the  In- 
vestigating Committee  and  charges  presented  is  sug- 
gested: 

CHARGES. 
To  the  Officers  and  Members  of Lodge, 

No. ,  I.  O.  O.  F.  of  Illinois: 

The  undersigned,  your  committee,  appointed  to  in- 
vestigate  the   complaint  against    Brother , 

a  member  of  this  Lodge,  respectfully  report  that  we  have 
made   due  investigation  as   to   the  matter  complained   of, 

and  find  from  our  investigation   that 

may  be  and  probably  is  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an 
Odd  Fellow.     We  therefore  prefer  the  following  charges: 

Charge  1.     We   charge    Brother , 

of  this  Lodge,  with  (here  insert  the  oflfense),  for  example: 
intoxication.      If    the    accused    has    been    convicted,    state 


R.  L.  VIII,  §4.  176 

whether  first  or  second  conviction,  thus:  "the  same  being 
his  second  or  third  offense,  said  brother  having  already 
been  convicted  once,  or  twice  of  intoxication." 

Specification  1.     That   he    was    intoxicated   at 

Grove  in   the  city  of 

on  the  fourth  day  of  July,  1908,  between  the  hours  of  2 
and  7  o'clock  p.  m. 

Specification  2.     That  he  was  intoxicated  at  a  public 
entertainment   held   at   Smith's   Hall,   located   at   No.   580 

A  street,  in  the  city  of ,  on  the 

22nd  of  February,  1908,  between  the  hours  of  7  and  10 
o'clock  p.  m. 

Charge  2.     We  charge  the  said  Brother 

with (embezzlement) 

Specification   1.     That  on   the  4th   day   of  June,   1908, 

at  the  city  of ,  he  collected  from 

A B ,  residing  at 

No ,  in  the  city  of , 

the  sum  of  fifty  dollars  at  the  request  of  and  for 
C D ,  his  em- 
ployer,  and    refused    to    turn   over    the    same    to    the   said 

C D ,  although 

requested  so  to  do  by  his  employer,  and  although  he,  the 

said    Brother ,   had   no   legal   or 

equitable  claim  thereto,  or  right  to  retain  and  withhold 
the  same. 

Witnesses  on  the  part  of  the  prosecution  A.  B.,  C.  D., 
E.  F.,  G.  H.,  and  I.  J. 

Signed 


Committee. 

NOTE. — With  report  should  be  a  copy  of  the  com- 
plaint, and  the  written  appointment  of  the  committee. 
(T-1871.) 

911.  If  a  brother  has  been  guilty  of  two  or  more 
acts  of  intoxication  before  his  offense  is  reported  to  the 
Lodge,  these  acts  must  be  summed  into  one  charge,  and 
dealt  with  in  one  trial,  with  one  penalty.  If  in  such  case 
two  separate  informations  alleging  different  instances  of 
intoxication  should  come  into  the  hands  of  the  Noble 
Grand,   they   should   be   referred   to   the   same   committee, 


177  R.  L.  VIII,  §4. 

and  be  united  in  one  charge,  as  above  stated.  (J.  VI, 
p.  915,  1023.) 

912.  The  following  charges  and  specifications  have 
been  held   to  be   vague,   uncertain   and   indefinite,   and   to 

allege  no  special  offense:  "I  charge  Brother  P 

to  have  abused  the  laws  of  our  Lodge,  viz:  First,  to  have 
misused  the  benefits  of  this  Lodge;  second,  to  have  been 
seen  at  work  several  times  during  his  sickness."  (S.  J. 
lyil,  7473.) 

913.  All  charges  must  contain  definite  specifications 
and  otherwise  conform  to  the  prescribed  procedure.  (S. 
J.  15418,  15541.) 

914.  The  charges  should  state  the  offenses  in  general 
terms  and  the  specifications  give  details,  showing  where, 
when,  and  in  what  way  the  offenses  were  committed. 
It  is  not  necessary  to  give  evidence,  but  a  sufficient  num- 
ber of  facts  should  be  stated  to  fully  inform  the  accused 
of  the  particular  transactions  concerning  which  he  is  to 
be  tried.  The  charge  may  be  a  single  one,  with  either 
one   or  more   specifications.      (T-1872.) 

915.  When  charges  of  calumny,  contempt,  misrep- 
resentation and  conduct  unbecoming  are  made,  specifica 
tions  should  explain  definitely  in  what  language,  acts, 
etc.,  calumny,  misrepresentations  and  misconduct  con- 
sist. Charges  and  specifications  must  not  be  vague,  but 
must  be  certain  and  definite.     (S.  J.  TZll ,  7473.) 

916.  Charges  and  specifications  should  be  spread 
upon  the  records  of  the  Lodge;  and  full  records  of  the 
entire  proceedings,  including  the  testimony,  should  be 
kept.  (T-1878;  W-688;  modified  by  S.  G.  L.  Session  of 
1908.) 

917.  Specifications  and  charges  may  be  so  indefinite 
that  the  accused  will  not  be  required  to  answer  if  present 
on  the  night  of  the  trial.     (J.  1899,  p.  128.) 

918.  The  filing  of  proper  charges  and  specifications 
is  jurisdictional,  and  in  the  absence  of  either,  the  Lodge 
has  no  power  to  proceed  or  fix  a  penalty.  (J.  1900,  p. 
133.) 

919.  The  following  charges  were  held  to  be  neither 
certain  nor  definite,  but  vague  and  uncertain  as  to  all  the 
details  necessary  to  apprise  the  accused  of  the  specific 
matters  upon  which  he  was  to  be  tried,  to-wit: 


R.  L.  VIII,  §4.  178 

"We,  the  Investigating  Committee,  on  complaint  filed 

against  Brother  A ,  of 

Lodge,  working  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  State  of 
Illinois,  do  hereby  find  the  following  charges: 

"1st.  For  not  keeping  accurate  minutes  between  this 
Lodge  and  its  members  without  prejudice  or  partiality. 

"2d.     For  making  false  record  and  false  report. 

"3d.  That  he  did  attempt  to  disfigure  the  record  of 
the  Lodge. 

"4th.     Was  guilty  of  getting  mad  in  open  Lodge. 

"5th.  That  he  refused  to  answer  communications  as 
directed  by  the  Lodge. 

"6th.  For  attempting  to  wrong  the  Lodge  out  of  its 
funds. 

"7th.  For  making  false  statement  concerning  the 
counting  up  of  the  finace  report."     (J.  1901,  p.  138.) 

920.  Journal  1901,  page  150,  presents  charges  and 
specifications  alleging  embezzlement  and  calumny  which 
are  held  to  be  insufficient  in  form. 

A  charge  alleging  adultery  must  state  time  and  place 
with  reasonable  certainty  and  the  name  of  the  person 
with  whom  committed,  otherwise  it  is  vague  and  in- 
definite, and  a  motion  to  dismiss  should  be  sustained. 
(J.  IX,  p.  586.) 

92L  Confession  of  misconduct  by  a  brother  to  the 
Lodge  Finance  Committee  will  not  warrant  his  expulsion 
by  the  Lodge  without  the  formality  of  charges.  (J.  IX, 
p.  894.) 

922.  When  a  brother  is  charged  with  having  di- 
vulged private  business  transacted  in  the  Lodge  room, 
the  specifications  must  show  what  language  was  used, 
what  business  was  disclosed,  and  to  whom  disclosed,  and 
if  they  do  not,  they  are  insuflficient  and  must  be  dis- 
missed.     (J.  IX,  p.  909.) 

923.  The  following  were  the  specifications  under  a 
charge  for  "conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow,"  viz: 
(1)  Abusing  his  family;  (2)  Calling  his  wife  and  daughter 
vile  names;  (3)  Defaming  the  names  of  brothers."  No 
names,  dates,  or  other  particulars  were  given.  Held,  that 
the  specifications  were  too  general  in  their  nature,  and 
not  sufficiently  explicit   or  definite.      (S.  J.   11666,   11681.) 


179  R.  L.  VIII,  §4. 

924.  The  Code  of  procedure  for  trials  in  the  Book 
of  Forms  is  adapted  to,  and  to  be  followed  only  by,  those 
Subordinates  under  the  immediate  jurisdiction  of  the 
S.  G.  L.,  that  is,  Subordinates  not  under  the  jurisdiction 
of  a  Subordinate  Grand  Lodge.  Under  the  laws  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois  it  would  not  be  safe  or  proper 
for  Lodges  under  its  jurisdiction  to  follow  it.  (S.  J.  XXI, 
p.  518,  752,  820.) 

925.  Charges  and  specifications  alleging  that  a 
brother  has  been  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd 
Fellow  by  allowing  a  man  (giving  his  name)  who  had 
apparently  fallen  down  a  flight  of  stairs  in  the  defendant's 
apartments,  to  remain  there  the  greater  part  of  the  night 
without  notifying  friends  or  calling  assistance,  are  too 
indefinite  and  uncertain  to  apprise  the  accused,  with  suf- 
ficient clearness,  of  the  nature  of  the  offense  charged 
against  him,  and  do  not  state  any  offense  within  the  juris- 
diction of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  730,  746.) 

RIGHTS  OF  MEMBERS  PENDING  CHARGES: 

926.  A  member  under  charges,  and  during  the  in- 
vestigation thereof,  is  presumed  to  be  innocent,  and  can 
participate  in  the  work  of  the  Lodge.  He  is  entitled  to 
watchers,  burial,  and  his  family  to  funeral  benefits.  The 
only  effect  of  undecided  charges  is  to  deprive  the  mem- 
ber of  the  right  to  take  a  certificate  of  resignation,  a 
withdrawal  or  visiting  card,  and  where  the  charges  bear 
upon  the  right  to  benefits,  to  suspend  the  payment  there- 
of until  a  final  decision.  When  they  do  not  relate  to 
benefits  he  is  entitled  to  them  if  otherwise  qualified.  (S. 
J.  2132,  2174,  5194,  5245.) 

927.  An  officer  is  not  suspended  from  the  perform- 
ance of  his  duties  during  the  pendency  of  charges  against 
him,  except  so  far  as  those  duties  may  have  relation 
to  the  charges,  such  as  the  appointment  of  the  whole  or  a 
part  of  the  committee  to  try  them,  or  in  acting  upon  the 
report.     (S.  J.  5194,  5245.) 

928.  At  any  time  during  the  proceedings,  if  by  sick- 
ness or  unavoidable  occurrence  the  brother  be  prevented 
from  appearing,  this  fact,  on  being  shown,  should  give 
him  a  continuance  of  the  case.  That  continuance  ought 
to  be  to  a  day  and  place  certain.  (S.  J.  4149,  4170;  J.  IX, 
p.  9,  897.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §5.  180 

929.  The  defendant  has  the  right  by  himself,  or  by 
his  counsel,  to  meet  and  cross-examine  the  witnesses.  No 
testimony  against  him  taken  in  his  absence  by  the  com- 
missioner without  notice  to  him  should  be  received.  His 
right  to  be  heard  by  his  witnesses  and  by  himself,  or  his 
counsel,  before  condemnation,  inheres  in  him  as  fully  in 
Odd  Fellowship  as  before  any  other  tribunal.  (S.  J. 
4149,  4170.) 

930.  A  suspended  member,  on  his  appearance  for 
trial,  must  be  temporarily  admitted  to  his  Lodge  for  the 
purpose  of  making  his  defense,  without  being  restored 
to  his  right  of  membership.  (S.  J.  1655;  but  see  Landes 
case  No.  220  J.  1899,  p.  22,  204,  205,  206.) 

931.  COMPLAINT,  OPEN.  —  Sec.  5.  — Any 
member  of  this  Lodge,  or  any  Rebekah  Lodge  in 
this  jurisdiction,  or  any  member  thereof,  whose 
good  standing  is  certified  to  at  the  time,  may  pre- 
fer an  open  complaint  or  information  in  writing  in 
this  Lodge  against  any  of  its  members,  and  such 
complaint  shall  be  treated,  in  all  respects,  as  pro- 
vided in  Section  4  of  this  Article ;  except  that  the 
complaint  shall  be  read  in  open  Lodge  and  the  com- 
mittee thereon  openly  appointed.     (J.  1895,  p.  210.) 

932.  In  the  absence  of  any  local  regulation  upon  the 
subject  a  member  of  one  Rebekah  Lodge,  desiring  to 
prefer  a  charge  or  charges  against  a  member  or  members 
of  another  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  present  such  charge 
or  charges,  in  the  usual  form,  to  the  Lodge  of  which  he 
(the  accuser)  is  a  member;  said  Lodge  shall  forthwith 
forward  to  the  Lodge  to  which  the  accused  may  belong, 
the  certified  copy  of  the  charge  or  charges,  over  the  sig- 
natures of  the  Noble  Grand  and  Secretary,  and  attested 
by  the  seal  of  the  Lodge;  the  Lodge  to  which  such  charge 
or  charges  shall  be  sent  shall  proceed  to  hear  and  de- 
termine the  same,  in  like  manner  as  if  preferred  by  a 
member  of  its  own  body.     (S.  J.  5195,  5245.) 

933.  CHARGES  PREFERRED,  PROCED- 
URE, TRIAL,  ETC.— Sec.  6.— Whenever  a  charge 
or  charges  are  preferred  against  a  member,  they  shall 


181  R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

be  read  in  open  Lodge,  at  a  regular  meeting.  The 
Secretary  shall  immediately  furnish  a  copy  thereof, 
under  seal  of  the  Lodge,  to  the  member  so  accused, 
and  at  the  same  time  cite  said  member  to  appear 
before  the  Lodge  at  the  next  regular  meeting  there- 
after, plead  guilty  or  not  guilty  to  each  charge  and 
specification ;  and  if  the  plea  is  not  guilty,  then  the 
Noble  Grand  shall  appoint  a  competent  member  of 
the  Lodge  as  a  commissioner  or  committee  of  one 
to  take  evidence,  both  for  the  Lodge  and  the  ac- 
cused, in  deposition  form,  by  writing  down  both  the 
questions  and  answers  in  full ;  and  that  the  said 
commissioner  to  take  evidence  shall  be  first  obli- 
gated by  the  Noble  Grand  to  perform  such  duty, 
and  shall  be  authorized  to  obligate  witnesses  who 
may  be  members  of  the  Order,  and  cause  such  wit- 
nesses who  may  not  be  members  of  the  Order  to  be 
obligated  by  a  proper  officer  authorized  to  admin- 
ister oaths.  Said  commissioner  shall  have  power  to 
pass  upon  the  competency  of  evidence,  and  if  ob- 
jections are  made  to  the  ruling  of  the  commissioner, 
said  objections  shall  be  noted,  together  with  the 
question  and  answer  in  deposition.  If  the  accused 
appears  when  cited  and  pleads  not  guilty,  the  case 
shall  be  continued  two  weeks  from  the  night  the 
citation  is  returnable,  to  give  each  side  an  oppor- 
tunity to  have  the  Secretary  cite  their  witnesses  to 
appear  before  the  commissioner.  The  commissioner 
shall  have  power  to  continue  the  taking  of  said  evi- 
dence from  day  to  day,  and  when  the  evidence  is 
all  taken,  said  commissioner  shall  make  a  certified 
report  of  the  same  to  the  Noble  Grand.  After  the 
receipt  of  the  commissioner's  report,  the  Noble 
Grand  shall  notify,  in  writing,  the  committee  having 
the  prosecution  in  charge  and  the  accused,  or  attor- 
ney for  the  accused,  of  the  time   (not  more  than 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6.  182 

seven  days  from  the  receipt  of  said  report)  and 
place  where  the  Noble  Grand  will  hear  both  the 
prosecution  and  defense  upon  the  evidence  to  which 
objections  were  made  before  the  commissioner; 
and,  after  hearing  the  parties  in  interest,  it  shall  be 
the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  rule  as  to  whether 
the  evidence  to  which  objections  were  made  before 
the  commissioner  shall  be  read  before  the  Lodge, 
and  svich  ruling  shall  be  final  and,  for  that  purpose, 
the  Noble  Grand  shall  mark  upon  the  deposition  at 
the  place  where  the  objected  evidence  may  appear, 
either  the  words  "don't  read"  or  "read,"  as  the 
case  may  be ;  and  all  the  evidence  shall  be  read  to 
the  Lodge  except  that  marked  by  the  Noble  Grand 
"Don't  read."     (J.  1895,  p.  210.) 

934.  A  Lodge  has  jurisdiction  to  try  a  member  who, 
against  the  law  of  the  Constitution  for  Subordinate 
Lodges  in  that  jurisdiction,  shall  divulge  to  an  applicant 
for  membership  the  name  of  a  brother  who  reported  un- 
favorably, or  otherwise  oppose  the  admission  of  such 
applicant,  and  the  Lodge  should  proceed  to  such  trial 
upon  proper  complaint.  And  if  the  offense  is  tried  in  a 
Rebekah  Lodge,  the  Subordinate  Lodge  should  not  wait 
until  the  offender  has  been  arraigned  and  tried  in  the 
Rebekah  Lodge,  if  the  same  Constitution  governs  the 
Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  40,  389,  413.) 

935.  A  member  guilty  of  conduct  unbecoming  an 
Odd  Fellow  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge  may  be  tried  in  that 
Lodge  or  in  his  Subordinate  Lodge.  If  tried  in  his  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge,  Rebekahs  may  appear  before  the  Com- 
mittee on  Trial  and  give  testimony.  (S.  J.  14248,  14487, 
14570.) 

936.  A  brother  under  cliarges  for  the  same  offense 
in  both,  his  Subordinate  and  Rebekah  Lodge,  should  be 
tried  in  each.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  34,  284.  314.) 

OBJECTION  TO  CHARGES: 

937.  Objections  to  the  form  of  charges  (as  informal, 
vague  or  indefinite)  must  be  made  before  the  plea  of 
guilty    or    not    guilty,    and    cannot    be    made    afterward. 


183  R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

An  appearance  cures  any  defect  in  the  summons  or  ser- 
vice thereof.  Formal  waiver  of  objections  to  charges  on 
trial  is  a  bar  to  appeal  on  that  point.  Vague  charges 
should  be  dismissed  when  motion  is  properly  entered  for 
that  purpose.  (J.  V,  p.  670,  751,  753;  J.  VI,  p.  18,  124, 
138;  See  §  940  infra.) 

938.  When  charges  are  too  indefinite  or  vague,  or 
when  what  they  allege  does  not  constitute  an  ofifense,  the 
Lodge  should  dismiss  them  at  once.  When  charges  are 
dismissed,  or  set  aside  for  any  reason,  the  proceedings 
of  the  case  are  at  an  end,  and  the  accused  is  in  the  same 
position  as  before  charges  are  brought.  The  Lodge  can 
take  no  further  action  until  new  charges  are  preferred. 
A  second  complaint  may  be  preferred  while  the  first  is 
pending,  but  not  for  the  same  ofifense,  and  should  be  re- 
ferred to  the  same  committee.  (Willard,  Sec.  670.)  If 
the  committee  decides  to  withdraw  any  of  the  charges 
and  specifications  before  beginning  to  take  evidence  in 
the  case,  they  may  do  so.  When  a  Lodge  dismisses 
charges,  an  appeal  lies  from  such  action.  (J.  1856,  p.  24, 
42;  J.  1857,  p.  92;  J.  IH,  p.  159;  J.  V,  p.  686;  J.  VI,  p.  471.) 

939.  When  proceedings  against  a  brother  cease  by 
setting  aside  the  charges  against  him  for  insufficiency, 
or  by  the  Investigating  Committee's  declining  to  bring 
charges  for  the  want  of  sufficient  evidence,  the  committee 
may  revise  the  charges  and  perfer  them  in  amended  form; 
or  the  informant  may  file  information  supported  by  fur- 
ther facts.     (J.  Ill,  p.  267;  J.  VI,  p.  777.) 

940.  If  any  advantage  is  to  be   taken   on  the  uncer- 
tainty   of   the    charge    or    informality    of   its    presentation, 
such  advantage  must  be  taken  before  the  accused  enters 
a  plea  of  not  guilty.  (J.  1903,  p.  150;  See  §  937  siifra.) 
THE  COMMISSIONER: 

94L  At  the  time  of  the  appointment  of  the  com- 
missioner by  the  Noble  Grand,  either  the  prosecution  or 
the  accused  may  challenge  the  appointment,  upon  the 
ground  of  prejudice  or  personal  interest  of  such  com- 
missioner, and  if  any  can  be  shown  to  exist,  it  shall  be 
the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  revoke  said  appointment 
and  appoint  some  other  member  of  the  Lodge  who  is 
neither  prejudiced  nor  interested  for  or  against  any  of 
the   parties   to   such   proceedings.     When   such   challenge 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 184 

is  made,  the  cause  shall  be  continued  one  week,  in  order 
that  a  reasonable  opportunity  may  be  afforded  the  mem- 
ber making  the  challenge  to  present  one  or  more  affi- 
davits in  support  thereof,  which  shall  be  filed  within  four 
days  as  a  part  of  the  records  of  the  case.  The  Noble 
Grand  alone  shall  judge  of  the  question  of  prejudice. 
(J.  IX„  p.  895;  T-1881.) 

942.     The   following  form   of  obligation   of   the   com- 
missioner is  suggested: 

I, ,   Commissioner,  duly 

appointed  by  the  Noble  Grand  of Lodge, 

No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  the  State  of  Illinois,  to  take 

the    evidence    under    charges    and    specifications    against 

Brother ,   a   member   of 

Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  the  State  of  Illinois, 

do  pledge  my  honor  as  an  Odd  Fellow,  that  I  will  dis- 
charge the  duties  of  such  commissioner  fully,  fairly  and 
impartially  to  the  best  of  my  knowledge  and  ability. 

Signed 

Commissioner. 
Attest: 


Noble  Grand  of Lodge,  No , 

I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  the  State  of  Illinois.     (T-1882.) 

943.  One  of  the  prosecuting  committee  may  not  be 
appointed  commissioner  to  take  the  testimony.  (J.  IX, 
p.  895.) 

944.  And  where  from  the  record  it  would  appear  that 
the  commissioner  is  prejudiced,  on  appeal,  the  Committee 
on  Judiciary  and  Appeals  should  order  his  dismissal  and 
the  appointment  of  the  new  commissioner.  (J.  IX,  p.  895.) 
THE  CITATION: 

945.  The  following  form  is  suggested  for  the  cita- 
tion of  the  accused: 

Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

At ,    Illinois, 190.... 

To  Mr.  A B 

Dear  Sir  and  Brother: — At  a  regular  meeting  of  the 
Lodge  held  this  evening,  charges  against  you  were  pre- 
sented, a  true  copy  of  which,  together  with  the  specifica- 
tions thereunder,  are  hereto  appended.  You  will  please 
take  due  notice  that  you  are  by  law  required  to  appear 


185  R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

and  answer  to  each  of  said  charges  and  specifications,  at 
the  second  stated  meeting  hereafter.     Therefore,  fail  not, 
under  penalty  for  contempt,  as  the  law  directs. 
Fraternally  yours, 


Sec'y  of Lodge,  No 

(Lodge  Seal.) 

The  Secretary  must  append  to  this  letter  a  correct 
copy  of  the  charges  and  specifications  as  preferred.  If 
the  brother  holds  an  unexpired  withdrawal  card,  the  Lodge 
shall  annul  it  when  the  charges  are  brought  in,  and  the 
following  should  be  added  to  the  above  citation:  "And 
you  are  further  notified  that  the  Lodge  has  annulled  the 
withdrawal  card  heretofore  granted  you,  which  annulment 
brings  you  into  membership  again.     (T-1884.) 

The  citation,  with  the  copy  of  the  charges,  should  be 
delivered  to  the  accused  in  person  by  the  Warden,  if 
possible. 

946.  FORM  FOR  THE  WARDEN'S  RETURN. 
Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

At ,    Illinois, 19 

I, ,    Warden    of 

Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  do 

hereby  certify  that  on  the day 

of ,  A.  D ,  I  served 

the  within  citation,  together  with  a  certified  copy  of  the 

charges  herein  mentioned,  on  the  said  A 

B ,  by  delivering  to  said  A 

B a  true  and  correct  copy  of  said  citation, 

and  a  like  copy  of  said  charges  and  specifications. 

Signed 

Warden Lodge,  No 

947.  Merely  technical  or  formal  objections  do  not 
invalidate  a  citation  to  the  trial,  if  it  comes  from  one  act- 
ing as  Secretary,  and  has  the  seal  impressed  thereon.  (J. 
VI,  p.  476,  569,  602.) 

948.  Notice  to  appear  before  a  Trial  Committee 
must  be  served  according  to  the  letter  of  the  law  pre- 
scribed as  a  general  and  local  requirement  for  such  ser- 
vice; and  when  such  noitce  has  not  been  properly  served, 
the  accused  should  have  the  benefit  of  the  doubt.  (S.  J. 
11893,  12217,  12281.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6.  186 

949.  A  citation  is  an  official  notice  or  demand  issued 
by  order  of  the  Lodge  and  under  its  official  seal,  directed 
to  its  member  and  notifying  or  demanding  such  member's 
appearance  at  a  time  and  place  therein  stated,  in  a  matter 
over  which  such  Lodge  has  jurisdiction.  Before  a  mem- 
ber of  a  Lodge  can  be  expelled  for  a  failure  to  be  present 
at  an  investigation,  it  must  appear  from  the  record  that 
a  citation  has  been  previously  issued  to,  and  personally 
served  on  him.     (J.  1899,  p.  137.) 

950.  It  is  not  contempt  to  refuse  to  obey  a  citation 
issued  without  authority,  or  one  which  commands  the 
presence  of  a  brother  at  a  time  and  place  when  the  Lodge 
has  no  right  to  command  such  presence.  So,  where  a 
plea  of  "not  guilty,"  in  writing,  is  on  file,  a  Lodge  may 
not  expel  a  defendant  because  he  fails  to  appear  in  open 
Lodge  in  response  to  a  citation  on  the  night  the  evidence 
is  to  be  read  and  a  trial  proper  is  to  be  held.  And  where 
a  brother  is  sick  and  the  Lodge  is  notified  of  such  sick- 
ness, and  of  his  inability  to  respond  to  the  citation  by 
reason  thereof,  the  Lodge  may  not  expel  him  for  con- 
tempt.    (J.  IX,  p.  895.) 

951.  Where,  in  answer  to  a  citation,  a  Past  Grand  in 
good  standing  appears  and  states  that  he  is  there  to  act 
as  counsel  for  the  accused,  the  Lodge  may  not  expel  the 
accused  for  contempt  for  not  appearing  in  person.  (J.  IX, 
p.  586;  See  §  958  infra.) 

952.  Where  no  charges  are  preferred  and  no  citation 
issued,  but  a  notice  is  sent  to  a  brother  to  appear  at  a 
stated  regular  meeting  in  reference  to  a  matter  between 
him  and  the  Lodge,  it  is  not  contempt  for  him  to  fail  to 
appear,  and  expulsion  for  contempt  based  thereon  will  be 
set  aside.     (J.  IX,  p.  595.) 

953.  Neglect  to  answer  letters  written  to  an  accused 
by  his  Lodge,  concerning  the  controversy,  may  be  dis- 
courteous, but  it  is  not  a  violation  of  any  law  or  obliga- 
tion, and  is  not  ground  for  a  charge  of  contempt.  (S.  J. 
9684,  9791.) 

THE  PLEA: 

954.  If  an  accused  brother  wislies  to  admit  that  he 
committed  the  act  charged,  but  under  excusable  circum- 
stances,   or    with    justifiable    intent,    he    should   plead    not 


187  R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

guilty,  and  present  his  defense.     (J.  V,  p.  674;  J.  1901,  p. 
145,  285;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  867,  915;  See  §  960  infra.) 

955.  If  a  member  refuses  to  stand  trial,  he  cannot 
be  formally  tried,  but  may  be  expelled  for  contempt.  If 
he  pleads  guilty  of  an  unworthy  action  and  asks  the  Lodge 
to  expel  him,  he  may  thus  avoid  a  trial,  and  the  Lodge 
may  expel  him.  If  the  accused  confesses  his  guilt,  it  is 
not  necessary  to  proceed  to  trial.     (S.  J.  805,  2620,  2650.) 

956.  When  a  brother  enters  a  plea  of  "guilty"  to 
cliarges  preferred  against  him,  and  the  law  fixes  a  definite 
penalty  therefor,  it  is  the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to 
forthwith  pronounce  judgment.  Justification  as  a  matter 
of  defense  must  be  made  under  a  plea  of  "not  guilty." 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  867,  915;  See  §  960  infra.) 

957.  A  plea  of  a  brother  charged  with  misconduct 
should  be  responsive  to  and  as  broad  as  the  charges  and 
specifications.     (J.  1896,  p.  116.) 

958.  When  a  brother  appears  to  plead  "not  guilty" 
for  an  accused,  the  Lodge  may  not  expel  the  accused  for 
contempt  for  not  appearing  himself,  for  no  law  of  our 
Order  is  better  settled  than  that  an  accused  brother  can 
appear  by  attorney  if  he  so  desires  and  is  not  compelled 
to  attend  in  person.  (J.  1896,  p.  140;  J.  IX,  p.  586.)  It  is 
error  for  a  Noble  Grand  to  rule  that  a  defendant  must 
plead  before  he  can  appear  by  attorney  or  before  he  can 
move  to  quash  the  charges.     (J.  1898,  p.  115.) 

959.  Where,  in  the  absence  of  the  accused,  a  member 
of  the  Lodge  is  appointed  to  act  as  attorney  for  him, 
and  this  brother,  as  such  attorney,  enters  a  plea  of  guilty 
for  the  accused  upon  which  the  accused  is  expelled,  the 
judgment  of  the  Lodge  will  be  set  aside  on  appeal.  Coun- 
sel appointed  by  the  Lodge  has  no  authority  to  enter  a 
plea  of  guilty.  Such  a  plea  so  entered  is  not  binding  upon 
the  accused.     (J.  1899,  p.  128.) 

960.  Where  charges  have  been  preferred  against  a 
brother  alleging  contempt  in  that  he  failed  or  refused  to 
answer  questions  as  a  witness  before  a  commissioner 
during  a  Lodge  trial,  if  he  desires  to  ofifer  evidence  to 
justify  his  action,  or  if  he  desires  to  prove  any  mitigating 
circumstances,  he  must  plead  "not  guilty"  and  introduce 
his  evidence  of  justification  or  mitigation  under  this  plea. 
If  he  pleads  guilty,  the  penalty  being  one   which  is  defi- 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 188 

nitely  fixed  by  law,  it  is  a  waste  of  time  to  show  miti- 
gating circumstances  or  to  consider  evidence  offered  in 
justification,  and  the  Lodge  must  proceed  to  inflict  the 
penalty  of  expulsion  without  hearing  any  evidence.  (J. 
1901,  p.  145,  285;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  867,  868,  869,  870,  915.) 

961.  Before  a  Lodge  may  proceed  to  expel  a  brother 
for  contempt  for  failure  to  appear  and  plead  to  charges 
and  specifications,  it  must  affirmatively  and  clearly  appear 
that  such  accused  member  has  been  personally  served 
with  a  citation  or  summons,  commanding  him  to  appear 
and  plead  as  the  law  directs.  Unless  the  accused  has  been 
so  served  and  furnished  with  a  copy  of  the  charges  and 
specifications,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  as  the  law 
directs,  the  Lodge  is  without  jurisdiction  to  proceed 
against  him  for  contempt.  When  personal  service  is 
made  by  the  Warden,  he  should  so  certify  to  the  Lodge. 
The  record  of  the  Lodge  should  show  clearly  where, 
when  and  how  the  citation  and  copy  of  the  charges  and 
specifications  were  served  on  the  accused,  and  without 
such  showing  being  made  in  the  record,  the  Lodge  is 
without  jurisdiction  to  proceed  further,  until  such  service 
has  been  had  and  such  showing  made.  The  law  is  well 
settled  that  a  Lodge  cannot  expel  for  contempt  unless 
there  has  been  personal  service  and  the  records  must  af- 
firmatively show  that  fact.  When  personal  service  can- 
not be  had  on  the  accused,  and  there  has  been  construc- 
tive service,  that  is,  by  mail,  etc.,  it  is  the  duty  of  the 
Noble  Grand  to  appoint  counsel  to  represent  the  accused, 
and  then  proceed  with  the  trial  the  same  as  if  the  accused 
had  responded  to  the  summons  and  pleaded  not  guilty. 
(J.  1898,  p.  87;  See  §  945  and  §  949  supra;  also  §  1016, 
1096  infra.)  , 

THE  EVIDENCE: 

962.  Whenever  a  Subordinate  Lodge  or  a  member 
thereof  who  is  under  charges  shall  desire  to  take  the  tes- 
timony of  a  witness  living  at  a  distance  from  such  Lodge, 
whose  personal  presence  can  not  be  had  before  the  tribu- 
nal trying  such  charge,  or  before  the  Commissioner,  his 
deposition  may  be  taken  in  the  following  manner: 

The  party  desiring  to  take  the  deposition  shall  file 
with  the  secretary  of  the  Lodge  the  interrogatories  he 
wishes   to  have  propounded  to   the  witness   or  witnesses, 


189 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 


naming  them.  The  Secretary  shall  immediately  deliver, 
or  cause  to  be  delivered,  to  the  opposite  party,  a  copy  of 
the  interrogatories.  The  latter  party,  within  one  week 
from  such  service,  may  file  counter-interrogatories  with 
the  Secretary,  if  he  or  they  think  proper.  At  the  expira- 
tion of  the  week,  or  sooner,  if  the  counter-interrogatories 
be  sooner  filed,  the  Secretary  shall  forthwith  forward 
them  to  the  Noble  Grand  of  the  Lodge  near  the  witness, 
with  a  communication  requesting  him  to  take  the  deposi- 
tion of  the  witness  or  witnesses  named.  Upon  receipt  of 
the  same  by  the  Noble  Grand,  he  shall,  as  soon  as  possi- 
ble, take,  or  cause  the  deposition  to  be  taken  by  some 
competent  member  of  the  Order,  causing  every  interrog- 
atory to  be  propounded  to  the  witness,  and  the  answer  to 
each  reduced  to  writing,  in  the  presence  of  the  witness, 
after  first  obligating  the  witness;  and  when  the  deposi- 
tion is  completed,  shall  cause  the  witness  to  sign  the 
same,  and  then  the  Noble  Grand,  or  person  taking  the 
same,  shall  certify  the  same  to  be  duly  taken,  and  such 
certificate  shall  be  verified  by  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  and 
the  deposition  shall  then  be  sealed  in  an  envelope  and 
transmitted  by  mail  to  the  Lodge  before  which  the  trial 
is  pending.  Depositions  thus  taken  and  certified  may  be 
read  in  evidence  in  the  cause  to  which  they  relate;  but 
such  parts  as  the  Noble  Grand  has  sustained  objections 
thereto  shall  not  be  read.  The  same  privileges  are  ex- 
tended to  a  party,  or  parties,  or  prosecution  preparing  a 
charge  or  charges.  (S.  J.  2738,  2774,  2885,  2909,  2962;  See 
§   1126  infra.) 

963.  If  witnesses  are  remote  from  the  Lodge,  that 
body  may  not  call  upon  the  defendant  to  attend  the  taking 
of  evidence,  nor  send  its  own  committee;  it  must  take  the 
deposition  of  the  witness.     (J.  VII,  p.  98,  112.) 

964.  CITATION  TO  WITNESS  WHO 

IS  AN  ODD  FELLOW. 
Hall  of Lodge,  No I.  O.  O.  F. 

At ,    Illinois, 19 

To  Brother  C D 

You  are  hereby  notified  to  appear  before  E 

E ,   commissioner,   to  take   testimony  at 

on 19 ,  at  the 

hour    of o'clock M.,    to    give    testimony 


R.  L.  VIII.  §6.  190 

in  tlie  case  of  an  accusation  against  Bro ; 

and  herein  you  will  not  fail,  under  such  penalty  as  our 
laws  provide.  Fraternally  yours, 

(Seal)  Sec'y  of Lodge,  No 

(T-1906.) 

965.  INVITATION    TO    A    WITNESS    WHO 

IS  NOT  AN  ODD  FELLOW. 

Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

At Illinois,    19 

To  Mr.  E F 

Dear  Sir: — A  charge  of  misconduct  has  been  preferred 

against  Bro ,  a  member  of  our 

Lodge,  and  it  has  been  suggested  that  your  testimony  will 
be  important  in  the  consideration  of  it.  The  Lodge  there- 
fore respectfully  requests  that  you  will  meet  Bro 

,  commissioner  to  take   testimony, 

at    the on 19 

at o'clock,  to  give  your  evidence,  or,  if  you  can- 
not do  so,  that  you  will  agree  with  the  commissioner  and 
the  accused,  upon  some  other  time  and  place. 
Yours  respectfully. 

On  behalf  of  the  Lodge. 

(T-1907.)  Sec'y  Lodge  No 

966.  If  the  witness  is  a  lady,  the  above  invitation 
should  be  varied  thus:     Strike  out  all  after  "respectfully 

requests  that  you  will"  and  insert  "inform  Bro , 

commissioner  to  take  testimony,  at  what  time  and  place 
he  and  the  accused  brother  may  call  upon  you  and  re- 
ceive your  evidence.  Please  name  an  early  time."  (T- 
1907«.) 

967.  OBLIGATION  OF  WITNESS. 

You  solemnly  promise,  upon  your  honor  as  a  man 
(and  as  an  Odd  Fellow)  that  the  testimony  which  you 
shall  give  respecting  the  matter  in  question  in  this  trial 
shall  be  the  truth,  the  whole  truth,  so  far  as  known  to 
you,  and  nothing  but  the  truth. 

968.  CERTIFICATE  OF  WITNESS. 

I  hereby  certify,  upon  my  honor,  that  the  foregoing 
statements,    constituting  my   testimony   in    the   matter   of 


191  R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

accusation    against    Bro , 

before Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

are  true. 

Attest ,   Commissioner.      (T-1908.) 

969.  There  is  no  rule  or  reason  to  forbid  the  taking 
of  outside  testimony  in  the  form  of  an  affidavit,  and  hav- 
ing it  sworn  to  before  a  notary  or  magistrate:  Providing 
the  accused  and  the  prosecuting  committee  both  agree 
thereto.  In  case  of  disagreement,  however,  the  testimony 
should  be  taken  upon  interrogatories  and  cross-inter- 
rogatories if  any  are  desired.  The  privacy  of  the  Order 
cannot  be  maintained  when  outsiders  are  witnesses.  (T- 
1909.) 

970.  Evidence  taken  and  documents  on  file  in  a  case 
decided  by  a  Lodge,  may  be  introduced  and  referred  to 
on  a  new  trial  or  rehearing  of  the  same  case.  (S.  J. 
4156,  4195.) 

971.  In  the  trial  of  charges,  where  either  party  or 
his  counsel  does  not  understand  the  language  in  which 
proceedings  are  conducted,  such  party  or  counsel  cannot 
be  denied  the  time  necessary  for  the  interpretation  to  him 
of  the  proceedings  as  had  by  interpreters  qualified  to  be 
present.      (S.  J.  8189.) 

The  S.  G.  L.  has  refused  to  repeal  the  above,  as  the 
law  was  both  necessary  and  proper.     (S.  J.  8331,  8440.) 

972.  If  a  member  of  a  Lodge  is  found  guilty  of  a 
crime  and  sentenced  to  imprisonment  by  a  court,  he  can 
be  punished  in  the  Lodge  only  after  a  regular  trial.  If  he 
pleaded  guilty,  in  court,  a  certified  copy  of  the  record  of 
that  introduced  in  evidence  will  be  sufficient  to  convict. 
(J.  V,  p.  138,  202,  230;  See  §  1005  infra.) 

973.  It  is  not  necessary  to  separate  on  a  trial  the 
evidence  ofifered  in  support  of  the  several  charges.  (J.  V, 
p.  678,  751.) 

974.  Testimony  given  by  the  witnesses  becomes  the 
property  of  the  Lodge,  and  must  be  submitted  to  the 
Noble  Grand,  unless,  by  consent  of  both  parties  to  the 
trial,  it  is  withdrawn.  When  evidence  is  taken  as  above, 
either  party  has  the  right  to  ofifer  it.     When  ofifered  it  is 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6.  192 

subject   to   tlie   ruling  of   the   Noble    Grand   as   to   its   ad- 
missibility.    (J.  VI,  p.  490,  551,  574,  599.) 

975.  The  defendant  is  a  competent  witness  in  all 
cases;  but  the  Lodge  may  properly  remember  that  he  is 
a  party  in  interest  and  give  his  testimony  such  weight  as 
they  think  it  is  entitled  to  receive.  A  defendant  cannot  be 
compelled  to  testify  against  himself.  (J.  V,  p.  686,  791, 
792.) 

976.  A  wife  may  be  allowed  to  testify  against  her 
husband  in  a  case  where  he  is  arraigned  for  inflicting 
bodily  injury  upon  her,  or  is  charged  with  the  abandon- 
ment of  herself  or  their  children.  If  she  be  divorced. 
" a  vinculo  matrimonii,"  sh.t  is  no  longer  a  wife  to  and 
ceases  to  have  any  interest  whatever  in  the  accused;  and 
in  such  case  she  may  testify  as  to  all  matters  which  may 
have  occurred  after  the  divorce;  but  if  the  divorce  be 
mtrtly  "a  mensa  et  thoro,"ih.t  separation  is  not  complete,- 
and  she  may  not  testify,  except  in  cases  where  he  is 
charged  with  inflicting  corporal  injury  upon  her,  or  with 
abandoning  her  or  their  children.  (S.  J.  8404,  8478,  1502, 
1513.) 

977.  Under  the  rules  of  evidence,  in  civil  and  crim- 
inal cases,  a  husband  or  wife  will  not  be  permitted  to 
testify  for  or  against  each  other  as  to  any  transaction 
or  conversation  occurring  during  their  marriage,  whether 
called  as  a  witness  during  the  existence  of  the  marriage, 
or  after  its  dissolution.  It  would  seem  that  this  rule  is 
also  the  law  governing  the  admission  of  the  testimony  of 
such  persons  in  Lodge  trials.  (See  Kurd's  Illinois  Sta- 
tute, Chapter  51,  Sec.  5. — Editor.) 

978.  ^a^jparfe  statements  are  those  of  one  side  only. 
Ex  parte  evidence  is  that  taken  by  one  party  in  the  ab- 
sence of  the  other,  or  without  notice  to  the  other,  so  that 
the  other  side  has  no  opportunity  to  cross-examine.  But 
if  the  opposite  party  has  failed  to  attend  the  taking  of 
the  testimony,  or  to  file  counter-interrogatories,  after 
having  received  the  required  notice,  the  evidence  taken 
by  one  side  alone  may  be  legally  introduced.  (T-1931.) 
An  ex  parte  statement  may  be  regarded  as  evidence  suf- 
ficient to  place  a  brother  on  his  trial,  but  such  testimony, 
unless  made  by  the  party  accused  against  his  own  interest, 
is  not  admissible  upon  the  trial.     (S.  J.  5852,  5936.) 

979.  If  for  any  reason  the  prosecution  has  failed  to 


193  R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

introduce  material  evidence  before  the  evidence  for  the 
defense  is  commenced,  it  is  still  competent  to  allow  new 
evidence  to  be  introduced  by  the  prosecution  at  any  time 
before  the  report  of  the  commissioner  shall  have  been 
presented  to  the  Noble  Grand,  such  new  evidence  need 
not  be  confined  to  that  which  is  merely  rebuttal.  On  the 
contrary,  justice  requires  that  each  party  be  allowed  to 
introduce  all  competent  evidence,  without  regard  to  the 
time  when  such  evidence  is  offered,  provided  the  same 
be  introduced  before  the  commissioner  makes  his  report 
and  after  due  notice  to  the  opposite  party.  (S.  J.  4915, 
4925.) 

980.  In  settling  difficulties  and  differences  between 
Odd  Fellows  and  in  trial  upon  charges,  the  Lodge  or 
commissioner  should  be  guided  and  restricted  by  the  rules 
of  evidence  prevailing  in  courts  of  law,  excepting  as 
modified  by  the  special  legislation  and  decisions  of  the 
Order.  All  proper  testimony  of  every  character  that  will 
tend  to  promote  the  ends  of  fraternal  justice  should  be 
taken  into  consideration  and  allowed  due  weight,  and  no 
evidence  should  be  rejected  unless  it  be  incompetent,  ir- 
relevant or  immaterial  to  the  issue.  Hearsay  or  secon- 
dary evidence  should  not  be  admitted.  Outside  testimony 
should  not  be  taken  when  the  same  evidence  may  be  ob- 
tained from  members  of  the  Order.  In  the  trial  of  a 
brother,  the  Lodge  is  under  no  obligations  to  pay  the 
expenses  of  the  defendant's  witnesses,  or  the  cost  of 
taking  testimony  in  his  behalf.  When  the  Lodge  appoints 
a  commissioner  to  take  testimony  in  case  of  the  trial  of  a 
brother,  the  Lodge  must  pay  all  necessary  expenses  in- 
curred by  said  commissioner.  If  the  witness  be  remote 
from  the  Lodge,  his  evidence  must  be  taken  under  the 
rule  for  the  taking  of  depositions.  (J.  Ill,  p.  158,  193; 
J.  I,  p.  291,  292;  J.  IV,  p.  33,  311,  323;  J.  V,  p.  12,  90,  91, 
663;  J.  VII,  p.  97.) 

981.  Evidence  as   to  reputation  must  be  the  general 

reputation   in   the  community  where   the   member   resides, 

or  among  his  acquaintances  or  associates.     (J.  V,  p.  307, 

387,  392.) 

If  Lodge  tribunals  are  to  be  regulated  by  the  rule.s  of  evi- 
dence prevailing  in  courts  of  law,  the  prosecution  would  not  be  per- 
mitted to  introduce  evidence  as  to  the  reputation  of  the  accused, 
unless  he  puts  his  character  in  issue  by  introducing  such  testimony 
himself,  in  which  case  the  Lodge  may  introduce  such  testimony  by 
way  of  rebuttal. —  (Editor.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6.  194 

982.  It  is  not  necessary  in  a  trial  for  intoxication  to 
prove  the  act  of  taking  liquor;  it  is  enough  to  prove  that 
the  accused  was  in  a  state  of  intoxication.     (J.  VI,  p.  255.) 

983.  A  brother  cannot  be  tried  upon  ex  parte  evi- 
dence or  other  testimony  when  no  other  opportunity  is 
given  for  cross-examination  or  representation  by  counsel. 
(S.  J.  15417,  15498.) 

984.  At  tlie  hearing  of  a  brother  under  charges,  he 
has  the  right,  by  himself,  or  by  counsel,  to  meet  and  cross- 
examine  all  witnesses.  No  testimony  against  him,  taken 
by  any  committee  without  notice  to  him,  in  his  absence, 
should  be  received.     (S.  J.  4149,  4170.) 

985.  While  ex  parte  testimony  is  inadmissible  on  a 
trial,  yet  if  the  testimony  in  the  case,  exclusive  of  this, 
is  so  conclusive  and  abundant  as  to  lead  to  the  conclu- 
sion that  no  other  judgment  could  have  been  properly 
arrived  at,  and  that  another  trial  would  reach  the  same 
result,  the  conviction  will  be  sustained.     (S.  J.  5852,  5936.) 

986.  No  rule  is  better  recognized  than  the  one  which 

requires  that  testimony  should  be  submitted  to  the  same 

tests  as  in  courts  of  justice,  from  which  it  follows  that  a 

person  must  be  actually  dead  before  his  dying  declaration 

may  be   admitted  in   evidence.     Declarations  in  extremis 

must  be  made  when  the  person  making  them  had  no  hope 

or  expectation  to  recover,  and  they  may  be  rebutted   bj' 

a  voluntary  statement  made  on  a  subsequent  day  to   the 

contrary  efifect.     (S.  J.  7344,  7413.) 

In  courts  of  law  a  dying  declaration  is  only  admitted  in  a 
criminal  case,  for  instance,  in  a  murder  case  where  the  defendant 
is  charged  with  having  murdered  the  person  making  the  declaration. 
It  is  never  admitted  in  a  civil  suit.  From  which  it  would  appear 
that,  if  the  rules  applied  by  the  courts  are  to  be  followed  in  the 
tribunals  of  the  Order,  dying  declarations  are  not  necessarily  ad- 
missible in  all  cases,  although  they  may  be  strictly  in  accordance 
with  the  rules  of  evidence. —  (Editor.) 

987.  The  record  of  an  acquittal  upon  a  charge  of 
feigning  sickness  to  obtain  benefits,  such  record  contain- 
ing evidence  upon  that  issue,  is  sufficient  to  estabhsh  the 
brother's  right  to  those  benefits  thus  claimed.  (S.  J.  4156, 
4195.) 

988.  The  secret  records  and  workings  of  an  En- 
campment or  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  be  introduced  in 
evidence  or  exposed  in  any  other  place  or  before  anj' 
other   tribunal,   except   in   such    Encampment   or   Rebekah 


195 R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

Lodge    or    trial    committee    thereof.      (S.    J.    11103,    11368, 
11396.) 

989.  Where  a  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  or  an 
Encampment  has  been  tried  and  expelled  from  such  Lodge 
or  Encampment  for  conduct  unbecoming  an  Odd  Fellow, 
there  is  no  objection  to  the  introduction  of  the  record  of 
conviction  in  evidence  before  the  Subordinate  Lodge  upon 
a  trial  therein  for  the  same  offense:  Provided,  such  rec- 
ord is  properly  certified  by  the  officers  of  such  Rebekah 
Lodge  or  Encampment  under  its  seal.  (S.  J.  11103,  11368. 
11396.) 

990.  The  decision  of  a  Grand  Lodge  on  a  question  of 
fact,  where  there  is  conflict  in  the  evidence,  will  not  be 
disturbed  on  a  further  appeal  to  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  12555, 
12646.) 

991.  Testimony  as  to  events  occurring  prior  and  sub- 
sequent to  the  time  of  the  commission  of  the  alleged 
ofifense,  if  material  and  relevant  to  the  subject  matter  of 
the  inquiry,  may  properly  be  received  in  evidence.  (S.  J. 
8405,  8479.) 

992.  The  objection  that,  on  the  trial,  undue  weight 
was  given  to  the  evidence  of  an  impugned  witness,  is 
groundless.  Objections  to  the  weight  given  to  evidence 
do  not  raise  any  question  of  law.     (S.  J.  15977,  15995.) 

993.  Acquittal  in  the  civil  courts  of  a  charge  of  mur- 
der is  not  a  sufificient  defense  in  a  trial  by  the  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  12555,  12646.) 

994.  Settlement  with  a  Lodge  by  a  defaulting  officer, 
by  repayment  by  note  of  the  amount  embezzled,  does  not 
prevent  the  trial,  conviction  and  punishment  of  the  of- 
fending brother  by  the  Lodge,  nor  would  the  fact  that 
the  public  statutes  of  the  state  or  government  wherein 
such  Lodge  was  located,  making  such  settlement  a  con- 
donation and  bar  to  a  criminal  prosecution,  in  any  way 
mitigate  the  offense  against  Odd  Fellowship  as  between 
an  Odd  Fellow  and  his  Lodge.     (S.  J.  15748,  16029,  16053.) 

995.  A  case  cannot  be  postponed  to  procure  the  tes- 
timony of  an  absent  witness,  when  the  other  party  to  the 
proceedings  admits  all  that  it  is  assumed  can  be  proved 
by  such  absent  witness.     (S.  J.  3573,  3589.) 

996.  The  question  of  postponement  of  the  trial  is 
entirely   in   the   discretion   of  the   Lodge,   and   the   refusal 


R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 196 

to  hear  the  attorneys  of  the  accused  on  the  subject,  is  no 
ground  for  appeal.     (S.  J.  5852,  5936.) 

997.  A  certified  copy  of  a  judgment  or  decree  of  a 
circuit  court  is  admissible  if  it  is  relevant  to  the  issue. 
But  it  is  not  competent  to  go  into  the  evidence  oflfered 
in  the  civil  court  to  show  the  grounds  upon  which  such 
court  reached  its  judgment  or  decree.  (S.  J.  XXII,  p. 
429,  675,  709.) 

998.  A  record  of  a  trial  in  the  courts  upon  a  charge 
of  the  violation  of  the  laws  of  the  land  is  prima  faGie 
proof  of  the  facts  appearing  therein;  and  when  charges 
are  preferred  against  a  brother  for  a  violation  of  the  laws 
of  the  Order,  the  same  he  has  been  tried  for  in  the  courts, 
the  record  of  the  courts  is  competent  proof  in  the  trial  of 
the  Lodge,  and  is  conclusive,  unless  other  evidence  be 
introduced  besides  that  in  the  record;  and  on  such  trial 
either  party  may  introduce  such  evidence  as  is  not  em- 
braced in  the  record.     (S.  J.  6351,  6619,  6692.) 

999.  But  this  rule  does  not  apply  to  bastardy  pro- 
ceedings, for  the  reason  that  such  proceedings  are  civil 
and  not  criminal.     (J.  1896,  p.  120,  337.) 

1000.  A  sworn  copy  of  a  certified  copy  of  a  record 
of  a  county  court  in  an  insanity  case  is  not  admissible 
in  evidence  where  no  showing  is  made  why  a  certified 
copy  of  the  record  is  not  and  cannot  be  produced.  (J. 
1896,  p.   136.) 

1001.  Charges  of  specified  offenses  cannot  be  sus- 
tained by  evidence  of  the  reputation  of  the  accused.  (J. 
1896,  p.  147.) 

1002.  Where  the  pivotal  point  of  a  case  is  the  sanity 
of  the  accused  at  the  time  the  alleged  offense  was  com- 
mitted, a  certified  copy  of  the  proceedings  of  the  county 
court  which  found  him  insane  within  twenty  days  after 
the  alleged  offense  was  committed,  is  competent  evidence 
and  should  be  admitted.     (J.  1898,  p.  123.) 

1003.  Where  no  notice  is  given  of  the  time  and  place 
where  the  Noble  Grand  will  pass  on  the  objections  to  the 
rulings  of  the  commissioner,  and  the  defendant  proceeds 
to  trial  without  objection  to  its  informality,  he  will  be 
deemed  to  have  waived  his  right,  and  cannot  complain 
of  the  error  on  appeal.     (J.  1903,  p.  159.) 


197 R.  L.  VIII,  §6. 

1004.  A  record  of  a  trial  in  a  divorce  case  in  the 
courts,  is  prima  facie  ptooi  of  the  facts  appearing  therein, 
and  where  charges  are  preferred  against  a  brother  for  a 
violation  of  the  laws  of  the  Order,  it  is  admissible  in  evi- 
dence, if  it  tends  to  prove  the  averments  set  up  in  the 
charges  and  specifications.     (J.  1895,  p.  75.) 

1005.  A  member  is  indicted  under  the  penal  law  of  a 
state  or  county  and  pleads  "guilty"  before  trial  in  his 
Lodge.  Held  that  such  plea  in  the  courts  is  equivalent 
to  a  conviction.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  20,  284,  314.) 

1006.  An  affidavit  upon  which  a  pension  was  procured 
is  competent  evidence  to  rebut  the  statement  of  a  mem- 
ber on  his  admission  that  he  is  in  good  health.  (S.  J. 
11256,  11311.) 

THE  COUNSEL: 

1007.  A  brother  is  not  bound,  at  the  request  of  the 
accused,  to  accept  employment  as  counsel,  but  if  he  does 
accept,  he  is  bound  to  use  all  honorable  means  in  his  de- 
fense.    (S.  J.  XX,  p.  552,  988,  1004.) 

1008.  Because  a  member  is  counsel  for  a  brother  on 
trial  in  a  Lodge,  or  on  an  appeal,  he  is  not  thereby  re- 
lieved from  a  worthy  member's  fealty  to  the  Order  and 
its  membership.  A  member's  fealty  to  the  Order  is 
greater  than  to  any  individual  member  thereof.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  552,  998,  1004.) 

1009.  If  during  a  trial,  counsel  for  the  defendant 
conducts  himself  in  a  disorderly  manner,  the  Lodge  or 
Committee  having  the  trial  in  charge,  has  full  power  to 
refuse  to  permit  such  counsel  to  be  heard,  and  to  require 
that  the  accused  shall  secure  other  counsel.  If  the  name 
of  such  counsel  appears  anywhere  on  the  record,  it  should 
remain,  and  the  Lodge  (or  trial  committee)  should  make 
a  note  on  their  minutes  why  he  was  not  allowed  further 
to  appear  in  the  case.  If  the  defendant  so  desires,  he 
should  be  granted  a  reasonable  time  to  secure  other  coun- 
sel.    (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  32,  219,  243,  221,  244.) 

1010.  Counsel  has  no  right  to  require  an  apology 
from  a  member  who  has  associated  him  with  an  ex- 
pelled member  whose  case  he  had  appealed  from  the 
Lodge  to  the  Grand  Master,  unless   the  member  violates 


R.  L.  VIII,  §7.  198 

some  law  in  the  use  of  his  language.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  552, 
988,    1004.) 

1011.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  acting  as  counsel  for 
a  brother  under  trial,  has  the  same  right  to  vote  on  the 
penalty  that  he  would  have  were  he  not  counsel.  (S.  J. 
13256,  13548,  13671.) 

1012.  A  trial  committee,  after  having  taken  testimony 
at  several  meetings  at  which  the  accused  and  his  counsel 
were  present,  adjourned  to  the  Lodge  room  at  the  hour 
of  the  meeting  of  the  Lodge.  The  counsel  of  the  accused, 
an  Odd  Fellow  in  good  standing,  could  not  gain  admit- 
tance, not  having  either  the  password  or  a  card,  and  in 
consequence  of  this,  the  accused,  after  objecting  to  pro- 
ceeding with  the  trial  in  the  absence  of  his  counsel,  left 
the  Lodge  room.  After  this  the  committee  reported 
charges  against  him  of  contempt,  and  he  was  expelled. 
Held  error.     (S.  J.  8366,  8469.) 

1013.  A  brother  against  whom  charges  are  preferred 
has  the  right  to  be  represented  by  counsel  and  to  be  heard 
on  a  question  of  law  as  to  whether  the  charges  preferred 
constitute  any  ofifense.     (S.  J.  15962,  15994.) 

1014.  Failure  on  the  part  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  ap- 
point an  attorney  to  defend  an  accused  brother  in  his 
absence,  is  not  error  where  the  accused  has  acknowledged 
the  receipt  of  a  copy  of  the  charges  and  specifications  and 
entered  a  plea  of  not  guilty.  (J.  IX,  p.  911;  See  §  1016 
infra.) 

1015.  A  brother  under  charges  cannot  be  represented 
by  an  attorney  who  is  not  a  member  of  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
12229,   12284.) 

1016.  CONSTRUCTIVE  SERVICE  ON  DE- 
FENDANT, HOW  OBTAINED.— Sec.  7.— If  the 
Secretary  is  unable  personally  to  serve  a  copy  of 
the  charges  and  citations  on  an  accused  member, 
by  reason  of  permanent  absence,  concealment  or 
incarceration,  a  copy  of  the  citations  and  charges 
left  at  the  accused's  usual  or  last  known  place  of 
abode,  or  deposited  in  the  mail  so  directed,  shall  be 
deemed  a  legal  notice  or  citation ;  and  the  Lodge 
may  proceed  with  the  trial  as  if  the  accused  were 


199  R.  L.  VII I,  §7. 

present.  The  Noble  Grand  shall  appoint  counsel 
to  defend  accused  if  none  appear.     (J.  1895,  p.  211.) 

1017.     FORM  OF  RETURN.— CONSTRUCTIVE 
SERVICE. 

Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.   O.  O.  F. 

At ,    Illinois , 

I, ,  Warden  of 

Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  do  hereby  certify  that  on 

the day  of ,  A.  D , 

I  served  the  within  citation,  together  with  a  certified  copy 
of   the   charges   and   specifications    therein   mentioned,    on 

the  said  A B by  leaving  a 

true  and  correct  copy  of  said  citation,  and  a  like  copy  of 

said  charges  and  specifications  at ,   which 

is  his  last  known  place  of  residence;  and  I  further  certify 
that  by  reason  of  the  (here  state  permanent  absence,  con- 
cealment,   or    because    of    his    absconding)     of    the    said 

A B he  could  not  be  found 

at  his  said  place  of  residence  or  elsewhere. 

(Signed) 

Secretary Rebekah  Lodge,  No 

The  foregoing  form  is  to  be  filled  out  and  filed  by  the 
Warden  when  the  accused  is  absent,  or  has  absconded 
or  concealed  himself,  and  his  last  known  place  of  resi- 
dence is  within  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodge.  Where  in 
any  case  the  last  known  place  of  residence  of  the  accused 
is  not  within  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodge,  then  the  War- 
den should  make  out  and  file  a  return  on  the  following 
blank: 

Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

At ,    Illinois , 

I, ,    Secretary   of 

Rebekah  Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  do  hereby  certify 

that  I  have  been  unable  to  personally  serve  the  within 
citation,  and  the  copy  of  the  charges  and  specifications 
thereto  appended,  on  the  within  named  defendant,  for  the 
reason  that  after  diligent  search  and  due  inquiry  being 
made  by  me.  neither  the  said  defendant  nor  his  last  known 
place  of  residence  could  be  found  within  the  jurisdiction 
of  this  Lodge. 

(Signed) 

Secretary Rebekah   Lodge,   No 


R.  L.  VIII,  §7.  200 

In  all  cases  where  constructive  service  is  had  it  is 
necessary  for  the  Secretary  to  make  out  and  file  a  return 
as  follows: 

Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

At ,    Illinois, 190 

I, Secretary    of 

Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  do  hereby  certify  that  on 

the day  of ,  A.   D , 

I  served  the  within  citation,  together  with  a  certified  copy 
of   the   charges   and   specifications    therein   mentioned,   by 

depositing  in  the  United  States  post  office  at 

a  true  and  correct  copy  of  said  citation,  together  with  a 
certified  copy  of  said  charges  and  specifications  securely 
enclosed,  and  sealed,  in  an  envelope,  postage  prepaid,  and 

addressed  to  the  said  A B 

at ,  which  is  his  last  known  post  office 

address. 

(Signed) 

Secretary Lodge,  No —  (Editor.) 

1018.  When  charges  are  preferred  against  a  brother 
of  the  Order  in  any  Lodge  to  which  he  may  belong,  but 
from  having  absconded,  or  from  his  permanent  absence 
or  concealment,  he  cannot  be  found,  so  that  the  charges 
preferred  or  notice  of  trial  cannot  be  personally  served 
upon  him,  the  Lodge  may  regularly  proceed  with  the  trial 
upon  proof  of  the  fact  rendering  such  personal  service 
impracticable,  and  that  a  copy  of  the  charges  and  notice 
of  trial  has  been  deposited  in  the  post  office  nearest  the 
last  known  residence  of  such  brother,  directed  to  him  at 
such  place  of  residence,  post  paid,  and  that  a  like  copy  of 
the  charges  and  notice  of  trial  was  left  at  his  last  place 
of  residence,  if  the  same  be  known:  Provided,  that  such 
papers  shall  be  deemed  to  have  been  served  upon  the 
brother  only  from  the  date  when  the  constructive  service 
above  prescribed  is  complete;  and  provided  further,  that 
in  case  such  brother  returns  after  the  conclusion  of  his 
trial,  not  having  appeared  on  such  trial,  either  in  person 
or  by  counsel,  and  asks  for  a  new  trial,  the  same  shall  be 
granted  to  him.  (S.  J.  2507,  2522,  2531;  Reb.  Const.,  Art. 
VIII,  Sec.  7  and  15;  See  §  1016  supra,  and  §  1106  infra.) 

1019.  A  Lodge  is  not  justified  in  trying  on  abscond- 


201  R.  L.  VIII,  §8. 

ing  member  without  issuing  a  citation  for  him  to  appear. 
(S.  J.  3836,  3847.) 

1020.  HEARING,  WHEN  HELD.  JUDG- 
MENT, HOW  DETERMINED.  — Sec.  8.  —  The 
Lodge  at  said  second  regular  meeting,  or  as  soon 
thereafter  as  the  register  of  the  evidence  shall  be 
reported  by  the  Noble  Grand,  shall  listen  to  the 
reading  of  the  evidence  as  taken  by  the  commis- 
sioner, both  for  the  Lodge  and  the  accused.  The 
accused  shall  be  heard  in  his  or  her  own  behalf  in 
person  or  by  counsel,  and  the  committee  appointed 
to  prosecute  "on  behalf  of  the  Lodge  shall  have  the 
right  to  also  address  the  Lodge.  The  Lodge  shall 
then  proceed  to  vote  upon  the  charge  or  charges 
preferred ;  but  no  member  shall  be  entitled  to  vote 
unless  present  during  the  reading  of  the  whole  tes- 
timony and  of  the  arguments  thereon.  If  the  charges 
be  sustained,  in  whole  or  in  part,  by  a  vote  of  two- 
thirds  of  the  members  present  entitled  to  vote  on 
the  question,  the  accused  shall  retire  to  the  ante- 
room. The  Secretary  shall  then  read  to  the  Lodge 
the  charge  or  charges,  or  parts  thereof,  that  have 
been  sustained,  when  the  Noble  Grand,  without 
motion,  shall  proceed  to  put  to  vote  the  highest 
order  of  punishment,  expulsion ;  and  if  that  be  not 
agreed  upon,  shall  put  the  next,  suspension ;  and 
shall  so  proceed  until  some  order  of  punishment 
is  agreed  upon  by  a  vote  of  two-thirds  of  the  mem- 
bers present.  One  penalty  only  shall  be  inflicted 
as  the  result  of  one  trial.     (J.  1895,  p.  21 L) 

1021.  A  sister  was  put  on  trial.  Her  husband  ap- 
peared for  her,  but  walked  out  of  the  committee  room 
in  indignation  during  the  course  of  the  trial,  leaving  her 
without  a  representative,  as  she  was  not  present.  She 
was  adjudged  guilty  of  contempt,  and  took  an  appeal  to 
the  Grand  Lodge,  which  reversed  the  decision  of  the 
Lodge.      As    the    proceedings    for    contempt    are    entirely 


R.  L.  VIII,  §8.  202 

collateral  to  the  main  issue,  the  judgment  for  contempt 
being  reversed  and  set  aside,  the  defendant  may  be  tried 
upon  the  original  charges.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  40,  365,  394.) 

TRIAL,  WHEN  AND  HOW  CONDUCTED: 

1022.  A  member  cannot  be  suspended  or  expelled  for 
misconduct  at  any  other  than  a  regular  meeting  of  the 
Lodge,  or  at  a  meeting  specially  called  for  the  trial.  (J. 
Ill,  p.  162,  193.) 

1023.  A  member  may  be  tried,  that  is,  evidence  on 
charges  preferred  against  him  may  be  considered  by  the 
Lodge  and  his  guilt  or  innocence  decided  by  ballot: 

(1.)  If  copy  of  charges  and  summons  to  attend  trial 
have  been  actually  served  on  him  and  he  appears. 

(2.)  If  on  such  actual  summons  he  makes  written 
defense  (or  is  defended  by  his  attorney)  or  waives  de- 
fense and  desires  the  trial  to  proceed  in  his  absence. 

(3.)  If  he  has  absconded,  or  is  permanently  absent 
or  in  concealment,  and  constructive  service  of  charges 
and   notice   have   been   properly   made.      (T-1892;   W-658.) 

1024.  But  a  member  may  not  be  tried  as  defined 
above,  if,  on  actual  notice,  he  refuses  to  stand  trial  and 
does  not  appear  and  remain  in  the  Lodge  room,  nor 
make  proxy  or  written  defense  or  waiver  as  above.  In 
that  case  he  may  be  dealt  with  for  contempt,  but  not  on 
the  merits  of  the  case  charged.  (S.  J.  806,  1502,  2483,  8367.) 

1025.  A  Lodge,  in  the  trial  of  a  brother  under  charge, 
may  not  refuse  admission  to,  or  exclude  from,  the  Lodge 
room,  during  such  trial,  any  member  of  the  Order  (who 
has  attained  the  necessary  degree.)  (S.  J.  5563,  6007, 
6235,  6314;  See  J.  1901,  p.  10,  Dec.  24.) 

1026.  When  charges  against  a  brother  have  been  re- 
ferred to  the  Lodge  for  trial,  the  Lodge  cannot  allow  the 
accuser  to  amend  the  charge  by  introducing  new  specifica- 
tions not  contained  in  the  original  charges.  (S.  J.  13257, 
13548,   13671.) 

1027.  Where,  under  the  laws  of  a  Grand  jurisdiction, 
an  appeal  can  be  taken  by  the  prosecution  from  the  action 
of  a  Lodge  dismissing  charges,  another  trial  can  be 
legally  had  when  such  an  appeal  is  sustained  and  the  case 
reversed  and  remanded  for  a  new  trial.     In  such  a  case. 


I 


203 R.  L.  VIII,  §8. 

if   the  brother  is   expelled   on   the   second   trial,   such   ex- 
pulsion is  valid.     (S.  J.  8084,  8175.) 

1028.  All  trials  take  place  in  open  Lodge,  and  all 
rules  of  order  for  the  transaction  of  business  shall  prevail 
at  such  a  trial.  (S.  J.  10253,  10487,  10511,  13143,  13144, 
13193.) 

1029.  A  Lodge  having  acquitted  a  brother  cannot 
retry  him  on  the  same  charges,  nor,  having  voted  a  pen- 
alty, can  it  revote  on  the  penalty,  unless  the  case  is  re- 
manded to  the  Lodge  for  that  purpose  on  appeal.  (J. 
1901,  p.  10,  319.) 

1030.  In  the  trial  of  charges,  where  either  party  or 
his  attorney  does  not  understand  the  language  in  which 
the  proceedings  are  conducted,  said  party  or  attorney 
cannot  be  denied  the  time  necessary  for  the  interpretation 
to  him  of  the  proceedings,  as  had  by  interpreters  qualified 
to  be  present.  A  member  entitled  to  address  remarks  or 
a  communication  to  any  member  of  the  Order,  if  he  be 
unable  to  speak  or  write  the  language  or  in  which  such 
Lodge  conducts  its  work,  cannot  be  denied  the  right  to 
make  such  address  in  English.     (S.  J.  8189.) 

1031.  Where  charges  have  been  preferred  against 
both  the  Noble  Grand  and  Vice  Grand  of  a  Rebekah 
Lodge,  the  method  of  procedure  for  the  trial  of  the 
charges  is  governed  and  controlled  entirely  by  local  law. 
(S.  J.  XXII,  p.  441,  675,  709.) 

1032.  Where  the  Noble  Grand  of  the  Lodge  is  the 
son  of  the  accused,  this  relationship  will  disqualify  him 
from  presiding  or  taking  any  ofificial  action  during  the 
trial  of  the  case.  Some  other  qualified  member  should 
be  called  upon  to  preside.  If  it  should  appear  that  all 
the  members  who  are  qualified  to  preside  are  either  re- 
lated to  the  accused,  or  directly  interested  in  the  result 
of  the  trial,  this  would  be  a  sufficient  ground  for  a  change 
of  venue.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  422,  693,  711.) 

1033.  A  Noble  Grand  should  not  assume  to  be  judge, 
jury,  act  as  accuser  and  rule  with  an  iron  hand.  The  pro- 
ceedings must  be  according  to  the  laws  of  the  Order, 
or  they  will  be  set  aside.     (J.  1896,  p.  141.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §8.  204 

THE  ARGUMENT: 

1034.  Debate  or  discussion  on  the  question  of  guilt 
or  innocence  of  the  accused  is  not  allowed  to  the  members 
of  the  Lodge,  but  is  confined  to  the  prosecuting  commit- 
tee, the  defendant  and  counsel  for  the  respective  parties. 
The  members  sit  as  jurors  during  a  trial,  and  to  allow 
them  to  discuss  the  guilt  or  innocence  of  the  accused 
would  be  highly  improper.     (J.  VI,  p.  231,  386.) 

1035.  The  local  law  may  provide  that  none  others 
than  the  sitting  Past  Grand  and  the  advocate  of  the  ac- 
cused can  discuss  the  question  of  guilt  or  innocence  of 
parties  on  trial.     (S.  J.  2645,  2646,  2667.) 

1036.  A  Lodge  may  not  limit  the  arguments  to  be 
made  in  a  trial  to  a  certain  time.  The  prosecuting  com- 
mittee and  counsel  of  both  sides  may  mutually  agree  to 
such  limitation,  and,  having  done  so,  the  Lodge  may  en- 
force the  agreement.  The  Lodge  may  not  permit  any 
argument  in  the  case  except  by  the  prosecuting  committee 
and  counsel.     (J.  1901,  p.  10,  319.) 

THE  VOTE: 

1037.  In  trials,  the  vote  of  guilty  or  not  guilty  should 
be  taken  as  follows: 

The  first  charge  should  be  read;  then  the  specifi- 
cations under  said  charge  should  be  read  and  balloted  on 
in  their  order;  then  a  ballot  should  be  taken  on  the  charge 
itself.  In  the  same  manner  the  second  charge  and  speci- 
fication should  be  proceeded  with.  If  all  the  specifications 
under  a  charge  are  sustained,  but  the  charge  itself  is  voted 
down,  the  defendant  is,  by  said  vote,  acquitted  of  the 
charge.  If  all  specifications  under  the  charge  are  voted 
down,  then  the  charge  itself  fails  without  vote.  A  Lodge 
must  ballot  on  each  specification  separately,  and  then  on 
the  charge.  At  times  specifications  are  vague;  and  al- 
though they  may  sometimes  be  sustained  by  the  evidence 
in  the  case,  yet,  such  specifications  may  not  be  sufficient 
to  sustain  the  charge.  Therefore,  the  Lodge  must  ballot 
first  on  the  specifications  in  their  order,  and,  if  any  or  all 
of  such  specifications  be  sustained,  then  the  ballot  must  be 
taken  on  the  charges.  The  records  of  the  Lodge  must 
show  the  number  of  ballots  cast  for  and  against  the  ac- 
cused upon  each  charge  and  each  specification.     It  should 


205 R.  L.  VIII,  §8. 

also  show  the  number  of  voting  members  present  and  en- 
titled to  vote.     (J.  VI,  p.  31,  32,  126.) 

1039.  A  member  who  is  not  entitled  to  vote  on  the 
question  '"guilty"  or  "not  guilty"  is  not  entitled  to  vote  on 
the  penalty  if  the  accused  is  found  guilty.  Only  those 
who  have  heard  the  whole  evidence  may  vote  on  either 
question.     (J.  VI,  p.  79,  137,  141.) 

1040.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  acting  as  counsel  for  a 
brother  under  trial  has  the  same  right  to  vote  on  the  pen- 
alty that  he  would  have  were  he  not  counsel.  (S.  J.  13256, 
13548,  13671.) 

1041.  A  member  on  trial  is  not  entitled  to  vote  in 
his  own  case.  A  member  present,  who  is  excused  from 
voting,  in  effect  votes  in  the  negative.  The  penalty  of 
expulsion  cannot  be  inflicted,  except  by  vote  of  a  majority 
of  two-thirds  of  the  members  present.     (S.  J.  3091,  3115.) 

1042.  Every  qualified  member  present  in  a  Lodge  is 
obliged  to  vote  on  all  questions,  unless  excused  by  the 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  4992,  5194,  5245.) 

1043.  A  member  in  arrears  for  dues  may  not  vote. 
A  member  may  withdraw  from  the  Lodge  room  before 
the  vote  is  taken.     (S.  J.  7854,  7883.) 

1044.  All  votes  taken  shall  be  by  ballot  of  balls. 
(Sub.  Const.,  Art.  VII,  Sec.  23.) 

1045.  The  Noble  Grand  should  carefully  explain,  be- 
for  the  balloting,  that  a  white  ball  is  to  be  cast  for  con- 
viction, or  for  the  penalty  under  consideration,  indicating 
the  affirmative  of  the  question;  and  that  a  black  ball  is 
against  sustaining  the  charges,  or  against  the  penalty,  in- 
dicating the  negative.  A  Lodge  cannot  reconsider  a  vote 
to  sustain  charges,  unless  error  or  fraud  in  the  ballot  be 
shown  which  might  have  effected  the  result,  and  not  even 
then,  unless  the  motion  be  made  at  the  same,  or  next 
regular  meeting.  (J.  Ill,  p.  180,  200;  J.  VII,  p.  510;  S.  J. 
1886,  2403;  See  §  1058  and  1062  to  1066,  inch,  infra.) 

1046.  When  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  Grand  Master,  or 
the  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals  sends  back  a 
case,  with  instructions  to  a  Lodge  that  it  must  find  the 
accused  guilty  and  inflict  the  proper  punishment,  the 
Lodge  must  ballot  on  each  specification  and  charge  regu- 
larly, as  in  case  of  the  original  proceedings;  next  it  ballots 


R.  L.  VIII,  §8.  206 

upon  the  penalt}^  unless  that  be  already  fixed  by  law.  But 
these  votes  need  not  be  taken  on  the  evening  the  remand- 
ing order  is  read  in  the  Lodge.  It  may  be  postponed  to 
some  other  reasonable  time.  (J.  VI,  p.  624;  J.  VII,  p. 
130,  131.) 

1047.  A  ballot  must  be  had  on  each  charge  and  speci- 
fication separately.  If  one  vote  only  is  taken  on  all 
charges  and  specifications  jointly,  it  will  be  reversible 
error.     (J.   1895,  p.  70.) 

THE  JUDGMENT: 

1048.  When  a  member  has  been  adjudged  guilty  and 
the  punishment  is  expulsion,  under  the  law  of  the  S.  G.  L., 
the  Lodge  ')nust  expel  him.  The  manner  in  which  the  ex- 
pulsion is  to  be  declared  is  left  to  the  Lodge.  It  may  be 
in  open  session,  at  the  regular  meeting  by  the  Noble  Grand 
for  the  Lodge,  or  it  may  be  by  a  vote,  it  must  be  by  the 
Lodge.  If  the  Lodge  fails  to  discharge  its  duty  it  should 
be  put  on  trial  and  punished  for  the  offense.  (S.  J.  10254, 
10487,  10511.) 

1049.  A  member  cannot  be  arraigned  for  one  offense 

and   be   found   guilty   of   another;    he   is    either   guilty    or 

innocent  of  the  charges  preferred.     (S.  J.  3818,  3841.) 

That  is,  there  must  be  no  variance  between  the  charges,  specifica- 
tions, the  evidence,  and  the  judgment.    All  must  harmonize. —  (Editor.) 

1050.  A  member  cannot  be  punished  by  reprimand, 
fine,  suspension  or  expulsion,  except  upon  conviction  of 
his  Lodge  upon  charges  duly  preferred.  (S.  J.  5486,  5528, 
5549.) 

1051.  If  the  penalty  adjudged  upon  a  trial  is  expul- 
sion, or  suspension  or  fine,  the  penalty  begins  to  operate 
as  soon  as  it  has  been  fixed  by  the  Lodge,  unless  it  be 
suspended  by  the  Deputy  when  an  appeal  is  about  to  be 
taken.  Then,  if  the  appeal  is  decided  against  the  accused, 
the  penalty  will  be  held  to  be  in  operation  from  the  date 
of  such  decision.  If  the  appeal  be  taken,  but  the  Deputy 
does  not  interfere  to  suspend  the  sentence,  the  accused 
will  submit  to  the  expulsion,  suspension,  or  fine,  until  the 
Grand  Master  or  Grand  Lodge  or  the  Committee  on  Ju- 
diciary and  Appeals  decides  in  his  favor.  If  the  penalty 
adjudged  be  reprimand,  and  an  appeal  be  taken  (or  notice 
of  appeal  given)  it  must  not  be  inflicted  until  the  case  is 
decided.     (S.  J.  7376,  7473;  T-1965.) 


207  R.  L.  VIII,  §8. 

1052.  Where  it  is  alleged  that  a  trial  Lodge  has  ac- 
quitted an  accused  contrary  to  the  weight  of  the  evidence, 
the  proper  method  of  procedure  to  secure  the  punishment 
of  the  accused  is  by  way  of  appeal.  The  Grand  Master 
has  no  power  to  order  a  rehearing  of  the  case,  nor  to  pro- 
ceed to  discipline  the  Lodge  for  contempt.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  430,  674,  709.) 

1053.  The  question  whether  an  appeal  by  a  brother 
from  the  action  of  the  Lodge  to  the  Grand  Lodge  shall 
act  as  a  supersedeas  and  suspend  all  action  until  the 
appeal  is  terminated,  is  one  to  be  settled  by  local  law  en- 
tirely.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  433,  713,  720.) 

1054.  Charges  which  are  not  supported  by  competent 
evidence  cannot  be  sustained,  and  a  conviction  in  such  a 
case  will  be  set  aside,  on  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
in  case  of  a  further  appeal  to  the  S.  G.  L.,  the  appeal  will 
be  dismissed.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  275,  313.) 

THE  RECORD; 

1055.  The  written  defense  or  argument  of  the  accused 
is  not  one  of  the  papers  regularly  belonging  to  a  case  of 
discipline,  but  if  he  requests  that  it  be  made  such,  the 
Secretary  should  so  file  and  copy  it;  and  it  cannot  then 
be  withdrawn  without  tlie  consent  of  the  Lodge.  A  Lodge 
has  control  of  its  papers,  but  reasonable  access  to  papers 
should  always  be  allowed  to  brother  members  (and  each 
party.)  A  brother  on  trial  is  entitled  to  abstracts  of  the 
record,  and  copies  of  all  papers  and  proceedings  in  any 
matter  of  fact  pertaining  to  his  case.  (J.  1857,  p.  92; 
J.  VI,  p.  496.) 

1056.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Secretary,  when  he  is  so 
instructed  by  the  Noble  Grand  or  the  Lodge,  to  make 
abstracts  of  records,  to  examine  the  same,  either  himself 
or  in  connection  with  committees  of  prosecution  or  de- 
fense, where  charges  are  pending,  or  in  any  case  or  mat- 
ter wherein  the  interests  of  the  Lodge  or  its  members 
are  concerned.  In  no  case  should  he  permit  books  or  pa- 
pers to  go  out  of  his  possession,  except  as  instructed 
and  obligated  at  the  time  of  his  installation.  (J.  VI, 
p.   489.) 

1057.  In  a  trial,  the  records  of  a  Lodge  must  show 
that  all  the  proceedings  have  been  conducted  in  due  form; 
and    no    presumption   of   fair    dealing   on    the    part    of   the 


R.  L.  VIII,  §8. 208 

Lodge   can    be   made    when    the    records    do   not   show   it. 
(J.    Ill,   p.   267.) 

ERROR  AND  FRAUD: 

1058.  It  is  dou])tfnl  whether  a  Lodge  would  be  sus- 
tained on  appeal  in  a  case  in  which  it  had  reconsidered 
a  ballot  in  a  trial,  in  view  of  the  law  that  the  reconsider- 
ation of  a  ballot  vote  is  inadmissible.  If  error  or  fraud 
be  shown,  it  will  be  best  to  apply  to  the  Grand  Master. 
(\V-700.) 

1059.  Whenever  the  Lodge  discovers  an  illegality  in 
proceedings,  or  fraud,  which  have  resulted  in  the  suspen- 
sion or  expulsion  of  a  member,  the  Lodge  should  apply 
to  the  Grand  Master  for  an  order  for  a  new  trial.  (J.  Ill, 
p.  267;  Sec.  707,  Willard's  Fifth  Digest;  J.  VI,  p.  1026; 
W-721.) 

1060.  A  motion  to  reconsider  does  not  apply  to  a 
case  of  expulsion  by  secret  ballot.  A  member  once  ex- 
pelled is  out  of  the  Order,  and  no  motion  made  to  re- 
consider that  vote  can  be  entertained.  He  must  comply 
with  the  laws  of  his  jurisdiction,  which  provides  the  mode 
and  manner  in  which  expelled  members  may  be  rein- 
stated, or  appeal  from  the  verdict.     (S.  J.  9000,  9096.) 

1061.  Before  the  ballot  is  decided,  or  ballot  box  ex- 
amined, if  a  member  announces  that  he  has  voted  by  mis- 
take, and  contrary  to  what  be  intended,  the  presiding 
officer  should  have  the  ballot  taken  over  again.  (S.  J. 
585.1  5936.) 

RECONSIDERATION: 

1062.  After  a  Lodge  has  imposed  and  inflicted  a 
penalty  for  an  offense,  it  cannot  reconsider  and  inflict 
another  and  different  penalty.  It  has  no  further  juris- 
diction of  the  matter.     (S.  J.  11103,  11368,  11396.) 

1063.  A  brother  was  convicted  upon  charges,  and  a 
penalty  of  reprimand  imposed  and  inflicted.  At  a  sub- 
.sequent  meeting  the  Lodge  voted  to  set  aside  the  penalty 
because  of  alleged  irregularity  in  voting,  and  thereupon 
expelled  the  brother.  It  was  held  that  such  expulsion 
was  void,  and  that  the  Lodge  was  preluded  from  reopen- 
ing the  case,  as  its  jurisdiction  was  exhausted,  even  if 
there  had  been  an  irregularity  in  balloting.  (S.  J.  12103, 
12153.  14438,  14471.) 


209  R.  L.  VIII,  §8. 

1064.  A  By-Law  providing  for  the  reconsideration 
of  a  motion  does  not  apply  to  a  case  of  expulsion  by  se- 
cret ballot.  It  only  applies  to  ordinary  parliamentary 
questions.  A  member  once  expelled  is  out  of  the  Order, 
and  no  motion  can  be  entertained  to  reconsider  the  vote. 
(S.  J.  9000,  9096,   14438,   14471.) 

1065.  After  a  verdict  of  acquittal  by  a  Trial  Lodge, 
a  motion  for  a  new  trial  was  allowed.  The  Lodge  Deputy 
held  that  the  action  of  the  Lodge  in  granting  a  new  trial 
was  illegal,  which  was  concurred  in  by  the  Grand  Master. 
Notwithstanding,  the  Lodge  voted  to  ignore  the  instruc- 
tions of  the  Grand  Master,  and  proceeded  with  the  trial 
and  expelled  the  accused.  Held  that  the  proceedings 
were  void,  and  were  rank  insubordination,  for  which  the 
Lodge  should  be  disciplined.     (J.  1901,  p.   159.) 

1066.  A  motion  to  reconsider  a  vote  taken  upon  the 
guilt  of  the  accused,  or  taken  to  fix  a  penalty,  cannot  be 
entertained.     (S.  J.  9000,  9096,  11103,   11368,  11396.) 

PENALTIES: 

1067.  Expulsion  severs  a  member's  connection  with 
the  Lodge  and  with  the  Order.  It  is  the  extreme  penalty 
of  our  laws,  and  should  not  be  inflicted  upon  any  member 
unless  convicted  of  some  serious  ofifense,  so  deemed  in 
our  laws.  A  decision  that  for  a  certain  ofifense  a  member 
may  be  expelled,  does  not  mean  that  he  must  be  ex- 
pelled. In  such  case,  facts  extenuating  or  criminating 
should  be  considered,  in  determining  upon  the  penalty, 
which  may  be  the  extreme  penalty  or  less.  (S.  J.  2330, 
2347,  4859,  4894.) 

1068.  A  fine  is  not  the  proper  or  legal  penalty  for 
a  violation  of  the  principles  of  the  Order.  When  a  Lodge 
has  imposed  a  fine  in  such  a  case,  it  must  rescind  all  ac- 
tion back  of  the  vote  sustaining  the  charge,  and  then 
reprimand,  suspend  or  expel.  (J.  Ill,  p.  30,  161,  193; 
J.   IX,  p.  892.) 

1069.  The  suspension  of  an  officer  for  cause,  and  as 
a  punishment,  whether  for  long  or  short  period,  vacates 
his  office.     (S.  J.  7772,  7840.) 

1070.  An  ofificer  of  a  State  Grand  Lodge,  who  is  sus- 
pended in  his  Subordiinate  Lodge  after  trial  and  convic- 
tion on  charges  of  conduct  unbecoming,  loses  his  ofifice. 


R.  L.  VIII,  §9.  210 

His  office  is  vacated,  and  should  be  iilled  in  the  mode 
provided  by  the  Constitution  of  State  Grand  Lodges,  and 
he  is  not  restored  to  office  at  the  end  of  his  suspension 
unless  the  Constitution  so  declares.  (S.  J.  7909,  8072, 
8173.) 

1071.  When  a  member  is  suspended  or  expelled  for 
immoral  conduct  or  other  cause,  it  is  not  obligatory  for 
the  members  of  the  Order  to  keep  the  fact  a  secret  from 
the  world.  Such  matters  should  not  be  unnecessarily  pub- 
lished, but  where  the  community  or  the  reputation  of  the 
Order  might  suffer  from  secrecy,  justice  requires  that 
they  should  be  made  public.  But  organized  bodies  only 
should  have  the  authority  to  make  such  divulgence  and 
not  individual  members,  without  authority.  (J.  IV,  p. 
200,    240.) 

1072.  A  brother  on  his  admission  reported  his  age 
as  twenty-one  years.  After  his  initiation,  it  was  ascer- 
tained that  he  was  still  in  his  minority.  Charges  were 
preferred,  to  which  he  pleaded  guilty.  In  view  of  exten- 
uating circumstances,  the  Lodge  reprimanded  him,  and 
suspended  him  for  six  months.  If  a  person  had  by  guile 
or  falsehood,  willfully  committed,  become  one  of  our 
membership,  upon  due  trial,  he  could  be  ejected,  but  if 
there  were  extenuating  circumstances  connected  with  the 
misrepresentation,  these  could  be  considered  in  measur- 
ing out  the   punishment.     (S.  J.  4858,  4894.) 

1073.  DURATION  OF  SUSPENSION  OR 
AMOUNT  OF  TIME,  HOW  DETERMINED.— 

Sec.  9. — Whenever  the  Lodge  shall  determine 
upon  suspension,  a  motion  may  be  made  to  fix  the 
time,  and  two  amendments  may  be  offered  thereto, 
which  shall  be  decided  without  debate.  The  Noble 
Grand  shall  put  them  to  vote,  commencing  with  the 
longest  period  of  time  therein  named,  and  if  all  of 
them  be  rejected,  a  second  motion  may  be  made 
and  tAvo  amendments  permitted  thereto,  which  shall 
be  put  to  vote  in  a  like  manner,  and  the  Lodge  shall 
so  proceed  until  some  period  of  suspension  is  agreed 
upon.     But  suspension   of  membership  shall  work 


211 ^,  I,.  iVjjI,^9. 

no  suspension  of  dues  and  arrearagtis,  b;it  they  >ihall 
run  on  during  suspension.  If  the  Lod^e  siiall  de- 
cide to  punish  by  fine,  the  same  cou5fe'-e  'shall  be 
adopted  in  determining  the  amount  thereof  as  is 
above  provided  in  fixing  the  time  of  suspension ; 
and  in  either  case,  of  fixing  the  time  of  suspension 
or  amount  of  fine,  the  majority  of  members  present 
shall  decide  the  period  of  time  or  amount.  But  no 
suspension  shall  be  for  a  shorter  time  than  to  cover 
the  date  of  the  next  regular  meeting  of  the  Lodge, 
nor  longer  than  one  year.     (J.  1895,  p.  211.) 

1074.  The  suspension  of  a  member  is  intended  only 
as  a  temporary  punishment  to  be  regulated  by  the  mag- 
nitude of  his  offense;  it  does  not  sever  his  connection 
with  the  Order  entirely,  and  the  moment  the  term  fixed 
for  the  duration  of  his  punishment  expires,  the  member 
returns  to  the  full  enjoyment  of  his  position  in  his  Lodge 
without  form.  Such  member  is  responsible  for  dues  and 
unworthy  conduct  during  such  disability.  (S.  J.  1400, 
1502,  1513.) 

1075.  A  brother,  when  suspended  from  membership 
in  his  Lodge,  is  thereby  cut  off  from  all  benefits  and 
privileges,  and  in  case  of  his  death  during  such  suspen- 
sion, the  Lodge  incurs  no  new  liability  on  account  of  his 
decease.     (S.  J.  2561,  2629.) 

1076.  A  brother,  although  under  suspension,  cannot 
be  deprived  of  the  right  of  petition  and  the  privilege  of 
making  acknowledgment  and  submission  for  errors  com- 
mitted. If  his  communications  are  disrespectful,  he  is 
amenable  to  the  laws  of  the  Lodge,  and  his  punishment 
may  be  extended,  upon  new  charges  and  trial,  to  expul- 
sion, if  the  cause  is  sufficient.  (S.  J.  2287,  2340.)  In  the 
Landes  case,  the  Grand  Lodge  refused  the  defendant 
admission  because  he  persisted  in  sending  disrespectful 
communications  to  the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  (J. 
1899,  p.  22,  170,  204,  260,  261.) 

1077.  By-Laws  excluding  any  member  from  voting 
at  an  election  as  a  penalty  for  canvassing  for  votes  for 
one's  self,  or  for  another,  or  declaring  a  member  in  a 
state  of  suspension  during  trial;   or  requiring  an   officer 


•R.  I...  VUl,.  §10.  212 

to  vacate  iiis  office  for  the  time  being,  because  of  the 
pendency  o:^  ^charges  against  him;  or  directing  that  for 
^ny  ofif<;nse  a, brother  shall  forthwith  be  ordered  to  leave 
the, room,  and  not  return  until  he  has  apologized;  or  ex- 
cluding visitors  for  any  offense,  are  illegal  and  void,  these 
penalties  being  equivalent  to  suspension  within  the  mean- 
ing of  the  Constitution;  neither  is  it  legal,  as  a  penalty 
for  misconduct,  to  suspend  one  from  office,  deprive  one 
of  benefits,  or  declare  one  ineligible  for  degrees  or  office. 
(J.  I,  p.  145,  148,  150,  151;  J.  1856,  p.  117,  190,  214,  232.) 

1078.  A  brother  may  not  be  ordered  to  leave  the 
room  for  misconduct,  nor  be  put  out,  unless  he  be  intoxi- 
cated or  otherwise  disorderly,  so  that  he  renders  it  diffi- 
cult to  proceed  with  business.     (J.  1856,  p.  117.) 

1079.  If  during  a  Lodge  trial,  and  after  giving  his 
testimony,  the  accused  removes  to  another  state  where  he 
expects  to  reside  in  the  future,  upon  a  judgment  of  guilty 
being  found,  and  the  penalty  fixed  at  reprimand,  the 
Lodge  may  summons  him  to  appear  and  receive  the  repri- 
mand, and  upon  his  failure  or  refusal  to  answer  such 
summons,  the  Lodge  may  proceed  to  punish  him,  ac- 
cording to  law,  for  contempt.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  519,  752, 
820.) 

1080.  PLEA  OF  GUILTY.— Sec.  10.— 
When  the  misconduct  is  confessed  by  the  accused 
brother  or  sister,  the  Lodge  to  which  such  case  is 
referred  may  proceed  to  vote  upon  the  punishment 
without  the  formula  of  a  trial.     (J.  1895,  p.  211.) 

108L  When  the  accused  pleads  guilty,  the  Lodge 
may  proceed  to  vote  upon  his  punishment  without  the 
formality  of  a  trial.  (S.  J.  806,  2620,  2650.)  But  he  may 
not  plead  guilty  unless  charges  have  been  regularly  pre- 
ferred. (See  §  918  and  §  921  supra.  As  to  effect  of  a 
plea  of  guilty,  see  §  954  to  §  961  supra.) 

1082.  Where  charges  allege  two  offenses,  one  of 
which  does  not  carry  a  fixed  penalty,  on  a  plea  of  guilty, 
it  is  the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  submit  the  question 
of  what  penalty  shall  be  imposed,  to  the  members  present. 
Only  one  penalty  can  be  inflicted.     (J.  1895,  p.  81.) 

1083.  LEGAL  PENALTIES,  WHAT  ARE.— 

Sec.    11. — The    only    legal    penalties    for    miscon- 


213 R.  L.  VIII,  §11. 

duct  are,  fine,  reprimand,  suspension  or  expulsion. 
Fine  is  not  allowed  as  a  penalty  for  violation  of  the 
principles  of  the  Order.     (J.  1895,  p.  212.) 

1084.  An  installed  officer  does  not  vacate  his  office 
by  non-attendance,  unless  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
make  such  a  provision.     (S.  J.  2215,  2264,  2327.) 

1085.  The  suspension  from  membership  of  an  officer, 
for  cause,  and  as  a  punishment,  whether  for  a  long  or 
short  period,  vacates  his  office.     (S.  J.  7771,  7840.) 

1086.  The  penalty  to  be  inflicted  upon  an  Odd  Fel- 
low, who  is  a  bar-tender  contrary  to  the  law  of  the  Order, 
and  who,  at  the  time  of  his  conviction,  continues  in  such 
business,  is  expulsion,  but  if  the  offending  brother  has, 
prior  to  his  conviction,  in  good  faith,  discontinued  such 
business,  then  the  penalty  is  such  as  may  be  determined 
by  the  trial  Lodge.  If  the  Lodge  of  which  a  brother  is 
a  member  knows  of  the  violation  of  the  law,  its  duty  is 
to  prefer  charges  against  the  offending  brother.  If  the 
local  law  does  not  regulate  or  provide  by  whom  charges 
are  to  be  preferred,  then  the  duty  would  especially  de- 
volve upon  the  Noble  Grand,  and  in  the  event  of  his  ab- 
sence or  inability,  then  the  Vice  Grand  should  perform 
such  duty.  In  the  absence  of  any  local  regulation,  any 
member  of  the  Lodge  having  knowledge  of  such  violation, 
would  be  authorized  to  prefer  charges.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  22, 
23,  284,  314;  Decision  12,  1903;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  523,  524,  754, 
820.) 

1087.  Where  a  member  has  been  adjudged  gruilty,  un- 
der charges,  and  the  penalty  fixed  at  reprimand,  and  he 
has  been  regularly  cited  to  appear  and  submit  to  the  pen- 
alty, but  fails  to  respond  to  the  summons,  he  is  guilty  of 
contempt,  and  may  be  expelled  accordingly.  If  his  ab- 
sence shall  have  been  caused  by  sickness  or  other  un- 
avoidable occurrence,  and  he  desires  to  rely  upon  that  as 
a  justification  for  his  absence,  he  must  not  appeal  from  the 
judgment  of  the  Lodge  in  holding  him  guilty  of  con- 
tempt, but  must  make  an  application  for  a  rehearing  with- 
in six  months,  which  application  shall  be  supported  by 
the  evidence  showing  the  reasons  why  he  was  unable 
to  attend  to  the  summons.  (J.  1901,  p.  149,  293;  J.  V,  p. 
684;  J.  VI,  p.  1026.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §12.  214 

1088.  P'ines  may  be  imposed  by  the  Noble  Grand 
upon  officers  or  meml)ers  for  absence  or  failure  to  do 
duty,  but  opportunity  must  first  be  given  to  the  officer 
or  member  to  offer  excuse  in  bar  or  mitigation  of  the 
alleged  offense,  upon  which  excuse  the  Lodge  must  pass 
and  decide  its  sufficiency  or  insufficiency.  If  the  Lodge 
decides  the  excuse  sufficient,  no  fine  shall  be  imposed, 
otherwise  the  fine  shall  be  imposed  and  shall  be  subject 
to  appeal.  The  word  of  a  brother  must  be  taken  as  true 
in  offering  an  excuse,  but  he  may  be  tried  and  punished 
for  a  false  statement.  (J.  VI,  p.  21,  22,  114,  116;  J.  IX, 
p.  881,  1017.) 

1089.  INTOXICATION,  PENALTIES  FOR. 
— Sec.  12. — The  penalty  for  intoxication  is  repri- 
mand for  the  first  offense,  suspension  for  the  second, 
and  expulsion  for  the  third ;  and  no  other  penalties 
are  legal.     (J.  1895,  p.  212.) 

1090.  But,  if  a  brother  has  been  expelled  for  intoxi- 
cation and  has  been  reinstated  and  shall  again  be  found 
guilty  of  intoxication,  the  penalty  shall  be  suspension  for 
not  less  than  three  months;  and  for  the  next  offense  he 
shall  be  again  expelled.  An  expulsion  for  the  first  offense 
after  reinstatement  cannot  be  sustained.  (J.  VI,  p.  1026; 
J.  1895,  p.  83.) 

1091.  A  brother  charged  with  intoxication  cannot  be 
expelled  for  the  third  offense  unless  the  former  convic- 
tions are  set  forth  in  the  charges  and  proved  by  the  evi- 
dence.    (J.  1896,  p.  123.) 

1092.  When  charges  and  specifications  for  intoxica- 
tion do  not  allege  a  former  conviction  or  convictions,  a 
conviction  thereunder  must  be  for  the  first  offense.  (J. 
IX,  p.  579.) 

1093.  DEFINITE  AND  ALTERNATIVE 
PENALTIES.  —  Sec.  13.  — When  a  definite  pen- 
alty is  fixed  by  law  for  any  ofifense,  a  brother  or  sis- 
ter convicted  thereof  is  sentenced  without  further 
vote ;  if  alternatives  are  fixed,  the  Lodge  chooses  one 
of  them  by  vote.    (J.  1895,  p.  212.) 

1094.  Where  the  By-Laws  of  the  Lodge  provide  that 
the  penalty  for  a  specific  offense  shall  be  suspension  or 


215  R.  L.  VIII,  §14. 

expulsion,  and  the  Constitution  provides  that  the  Lodge 
shall  fix  the  penalty  by  vote,  unless  it  be  a  single  penalty, 
and  that  it  shall  require  a  two-thirds  vote  for  expulsion, 
the  Lodge  must  vote;  and  if  two-thirds  be  not  cast 
against  the  brother,  the  penalty  to  be  inflicted  must  be 
suspension,  no  vote  for  that  purpose  being  required.  (S. 
J.  14250,  14487,  14570.) 

1095.  Where  a  penalty  has  been  inflicted  by  a  vote 
of  the  Lodge,  no  law  of  our  Order  will  permit  the  Lodge 
to  set  aside  its  finding  for  another  and  greater  penalty. 
Should  the  penalty  be  reprimand,  and  the  brother  fails  to 
appear  to  submit  to  the  penalty,  the  remedy  against  him 
would  be  contempt.     (J.  1896,  p.  125;  J.  1901,  p.  149,  293.) 

-1096.    CONTEMPT  OF  ACCUSED.— Sec.  14. 

— If  any  accused  meml:)er  shall  evade  the  receiv- 
ing of  a  citation,  or,  having  received  the  same,  shall 
neglect  or  refuse  to  attend  the  Lodge  at  the  time 
therein  fixed,  and  there  remain  throughout  the  in- 
vestigation or  trial  of  the  case,  the  Lodge  may  pro- 
ceed in  such  absence  to  expel  such  accused  member 
for  contempt.     (J.  1895,  p.  212.) 

1097.  When  an  accused  member  is  expelled  for  con- 
tempt in  not  appearing  for  trial,  the  record  should,  by 
some  positive  evidence,  show  that  a  copy  of  the  charges 
was  served  on  the  accused,  as  well  as  a  sufficient  notice 
of  the  time  and  place  of  the  trial,  and  a  summons  to  the 
accused  to  be  present.     (S.  J.  5495,  5541.) 

1098.  Where  one  who  has  been  expelled  for  con- 
tempt makes  application  for  a  new  trial  within  six  months 
after  such  sentence,  he  must  make  such  application  in 
writing  and  support  the  same  by  evidence  also  in  writing, 
showing  that  his  absence  was  unavoidable,  or  that  in- 
justice has  been  done  him.  The  Lodge  shall  then  present 
the  case  to  the  Grand  Master,  upon  whose  order  a  new- 
trial  can  be  had.  From  such  order  an  appeal  lies  to  the 
Grand  Lodge.  A  Lodge  Deputy  cannot  order  or  grant 
a  new  trial.     (J.  V,  p.  684,  791;  J.  VT,  p.  1026.) 

1099.  Expulsion  for  contempt  in  not  appearing,  is 
a  summary  proceeding,  requiring  no  delay,  no  previous 
charges  of  contempt,  or  investigation,  and  no  ground  or 


R.  L.  VIII,  §15.  216 

action  on   the  part  of  the  Lodge,  but  the  absence  of  the 
accused.     (J.  1853,  p.  79,  80,  81.) 

1100.  A  brother  is  not  guilty  of  contempt  who  shall 
make  a  defense  in  writing,  or  shall  waive  his  privilege 
of  making  a  defense  in  person  or  by  counsel,  and  desire 
the  trial  to  proceed  in  his  absence;  but  in  such  cases  the 
trial  must  be  conducted  in  the  same  manner  and  decided 
as  though  the  brother  was  present.  (J.  1854,  p.  69,  Ji; 
J.  Ill,  p.  95.) 

1101.  An  expulsion  for  contempt  cannot  be  sus- 
tained unless  the  Lodge  records  show  that  the  accused 
was  notified  to  be  present  as  required  by  the  Constitution. 
(J.    1906,    p.    170.) 

1102.  The  failure  of  the  accused  to  appear  at  the 
time  and  place  of  taking  testimony  does  not  constitute 
a  contempt;  in  such  case  the  evidence  is  to  be  taken  in 
his  absence.  Testimony  may  be  taken  also  in  the  absence 
of  the  prosecution,  if  due  notice  of  the  time  and  place  of 
hearing  have  been  given.     (J.  V,  p.  310,  384,  392.) 

1103.  When  a  conviction  for  contempt,  during  a  trial 
on  charges,  is  reversed  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  Lodge 
can  then  proceed  with  the  trial  on  the  original  charges. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  40,  365,  394.) 

1104.  Where  an  accused  is  not  present,  in  person  or 
by  attorney,  in  answer  to  a  summons,  and  the  Lodge  pro- 
ceeds to  ballot  upon  a  motion  to  expel  him  for  contempt, 
and  the  attorney  for  the  accused  enters,  before  the  ballot 
is  completed,  and  announces  that  he  is  there  to  act  for 
him,  it  is  error  to  proceed  to  judgment  for  contempt. 
(J.  1895,  p.  71.) 

1105.  The  provision  of  a  Subordinate  Constitution, 
"If  the  accused  neglects  or  refuses  to  remain  throughout 
the  investigation  or  trial,  the  Lodge  may  proceed  in  his 
absence  to  expel  him  for  contempt,"  does  not  apply  to  a 
case  where  he  appears  by  counsel.     (S.  J.  9288,  9349.) 

1106.  NEW  TRIAL,  AND  OTHER  RIGHTS 
GUARANTEED.  —  Sec.  15. —  At  all  stages  of  the 
proceedings  the  accused  shall  have  all  opportunity 
of  vindication,  and  in  case  of  suspension  or  expul- 
sion following  the  constructive  citations  provided 


217 R.  L.  VIII,  §17. 

for  in  Section  6  of  this  Article,  or  in  case  of  alleged 
contempt,  the  accused  shall  be  entitled  to  a  new- 
trial  at  any  time  within  six  months,  if  it  be  shown 
that  the  absence  was  produced  by  unavoidable  cir- 
cumstances, or  that  injustice  was  done.  (J.  1895, 
p.  212.) 

1107.  APPEAL.— Sec.  16.— Any  three  mem- 
bers, or  the  accused,  feeling  aggrieved  by  the  de- 
cision of  the  Lodge  in  a  trial,  shall  be  entitled  to 
an  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  which  appeal  must 
be  entered  according  to  the  laws  and  regulations 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  on  the  matter  of  appeals ;  and 
on  command  of  the  Grand  Lodge  the  brother  or  sis- 
ter may  be  tried  anew  for  the  same  offense.  (J. 
1895,  p.  212.) 

1108.  Appeals  from  a  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  first  be 
made  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction.  (S.  J. 
11490,   11728,   11786.) 

1109.  A  Grand  Lodge  can  empower  its  Rebekah  As- 
sembly to  determine  appeals  for  the  non-observance  of 
the  General  Laws  of  the  Order,  subject  to  the  right  to 
appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  14679,  14948,  15019.) 

1110.  A  Grand  Lodge  can  grant  to  Rebekah  As- 
semblies the  power  to  provide  that  appeals  from  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge  shall  be  made  to  the  Assembly.  (S.  J. 
15752,  16071,  16116.) 

1111.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  appeal  to  the  S.  G. 
L.  direct  from  the  decision  of  a  Grand  Master,  but  must 
first  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction.  If 
dissatisfied  with  the  action,  an  appeal  can  then  be  made 
to  the  Sovereign  Body.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365,  394.) 

1112.  SUSPENSION,  NOTICE  OF  TO 
OTHER  LODGES. —  Sec.  17. —  Any  brother  or 
sister  having  been  suspended  or  expelled,  notice 
thereof  shall  be  sent  without  delay  to  the  Grand 
Secretary  and  to  all  the  Rebekah  Lodges  in  the 
same    place,     and     nearest    neighboring    Rebekah 


R.  L.  VIII,  §18.  218 

Lodges;  and  a  l)rother  or  a  sister  who  has  been 
legally  expelled  shall  not  be  admitted  to  member- 
ship again  without  consent  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
(J.  1895,  p.  212.) 

1113.  FALSE  AND  MALICIOUS  COM- 
PLAINTS. —  Sec.  18.  — If  any  member  of  the 
Lodge  shall  make  to  the  Noble  Grand  any  accusa- 
tion against  a  brother  or  a  sister  under  Section  3 
of  this  Article,  which  shall  be  proved  to  be  with- 
out reasonable  grounds,  or  false  and  malicious,  it 
shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  to  deliver  up 
the  name  of  the  informant  to  the  Lodge  on  demand 
of  a  majority  of  the  members  thereof  present.  (J. 
1895,  p.  212.) 

1114.  BLACK  BOOK  — Sec.  19.  —  This 
Lodge  shall  have  a  black  book,  in  which  shall  be 
entered  the  names  of  all  persons  rejected,  suspended 
or  expelled  by  this  Lodge,  or  any  other  Lodge,  of 
which  they  may  have  received  due  notice,  with  the 
date  and  cause  of  such  suspension  or  expulsion. 
(J.  1895,  p.  212.) 

1115.  VENUE  CHANGED.  — Sec.  20.  — If 
the  accused,  or  three  members  of  the  Lodge  in 
which  charges  may  be  preferred  against  a  member, 
are  of  the  opinion  that  the  accused  will  not  receive 
an  impartial  trial  at  the  hands  of  the  Lodge,  and 
present  such  an  opinion  in  writing,  such  paper, 
together  with  such  evidence  as  may  be  desired 
bearing  upon  the  question  of  prejudice  in  the  Lodge, 
shall  be  forwarded  to  the  Grand  Master,  and  if  he 
orders  the  case  changed  to  another  Lodge,  then, 
when  the  register  of  written  evidence  is  reported  by 
the  committee  and  the  case  is  ready  for  the  hear- 
ing, the  trial  shall  be  removed  to  the  named  Lodge. 
A  copy  of  the  record  of  all  proceedings  up  to  the 


219  R.  L.  VIII,  §20. 


time  of  removal  shall  be  sent  to  the  Lodge  to  which 
removal  is  made,  with  the  original  papers  of  the 
case,  and  a  transcript  of  all  letters  relating  thereto; 
and  such  Lodge  shall  proceed  to  the  hearing,  scru- 
tiny and  decision  as  if  the  accusation  had  been  first 
therein  preferred.  The  Lodge  from  which  the 
venue  is  changed  shall  pay  all  necessary  expenses 
incurred  in  such  trial  by  the  Lodge  to  which  the 
venue  is  changed.     (J.  1895,  p.  213.) 

1116.  Where  the  accused  makes  application  for  a 
change  of  venue,  the  eflfect  of  the  application  is  to  sus- 
pend the  trial  in  his  Lodge  until  the  order  of  the  Grand 
Master  thereon  is  received  by  the  Lodge.  (J.  1901,  p. 
135.) 

1117.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  prosecuting  committee 
who  brought  the  charges  to  prosecute  the  case  to  its 
final  determination,  not  only  in  their  own  Lodge,  but  in 
the  Lodge  to  which  a  change  of  venue  has  been  granted. 
The  Lodge  to  which  a  trial  is  removed  is  permitted  to 
appoint  a  prosecuting  committee  from  its  own  members, 
only  in  case  of  the  absence  or  inability  to  act  of  the 
original  prosecuting  committee  whose  duty  it  is  to  attend 
to  the  case  wherever  it  is  tried.     (J.  VI,  p.  338,  359.) 

1118.  A  change  of  venue  may  be  asked  on  behalf  of 
the  prosecution  as  well  as  on  behalf  of  the  accused,  or  by 
any  three  members.  It  may  be  asked  in  a  case  of  charges 
of  official  misconduct.  The  accused  may  be  one  of  the 
three  that  asked  the  change  of  venue.     (J.  IX,  p.  127,  403.) 

1119.  When  an  appeal  case  has  been  sent  back  by 
the  Grand  Lodge,  Grand  Master,  or  Committee  on  Ju- 
diciary and  Appeals  for  a  new  trial,  a  change  of  venue 
may  be  asked  for  the  second  trial  unless  there  are  special 
instructions    inconsistent   therewith.      (J.    V,    p.   483,    553.) 

1120.  FORM  OF  APPLICATION  FOR 

CHANGE  OF  VENUE. 

,    Illinois, 19 

To Lodge  No ,1.0.0.  F.: 

OFFICERS  AND  MEMBERS— The  undersigned 
(accused.  Prosecuting  Committee,  or  three  members)  of 
the  Lodge,  are  of  the  opinion  that  Brother 


R.  L.  VIII,  §21.  220 

will  not  receive  an  impartial  trial  in  this  Lodge,  and  they 
ask  of  the  Grand  Master  that  he  shall  grant  a  removal  of 
the  trial  to  another  Lodge,  according  to  law. 

(Signed) 


(T-1962.) 

Attach  and  file  with  this  notice  any  and  all  evidence  bearing  upon 
the  question  which  either  side  to  the  controversy  may  desire  to 
know. —  (Editor.) 

112L  On  change  of  venue,  the  Lodge  from  which 
the  venue  is  changed  must  pay  the  legitimate  expenses 
of  the  trial  incurred  by  the  trial  Lodge.     (J.  1898,  p.  93.) 

1122.  A  petition  for  a  change  of  venue  made  prior 
to  entering  a  plea  will  not  excuse  the  defendant  from 
pleading  when  regularly  called  upon  to  plead,  but  if  he 
refuses  so  to  plead  he  will  be  expelled  for  contempt, 
regardless  of  the  petition  for  change  of  venue  having 
been  previously  filed.     (J.  1897,  p.  203.) 

1123.  There  is  no  general  law  authorizing  a  change 
of  venue.  Charges  must  be  tried  in  the  Lodge  where 
they  are  preferred,  unless  a  change  of  venue  is  authorized 
by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  that  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  4240,  4374, 
4404,  4414,  4430,  11482,  11728,  11786.) 

1124.  CHANGE  OF  VENUE,  TO  WHOM.— 

Sec.  21. — Change  of  venue  may  be  made  on  be- 
half of  the  prosecution  as  well  as  on  behalf  of  the 
accused,  or  by  any  three  members.  It  may  be  asked 
in  cases  of  charges  of  official  misconduct.  (T.  1895, 
p.  213.) 

1125.  ADVOCATES,  AFTER  REMOVAL.— 
Sec.  22. — Upon  such  removal  the  Prosecuting 
Committee,  or  some  advocate  appointed  by  the 
Noble  Grand  of  the  removing  Lodge,  may  present 
the  case,  and  the  accused  may  appear  personally 
or  by  attorney,  as  if  no  such  removal  had  taken 
place.     (J.  1895,  p.  213.) 

1126.  DEPOSITION  S.— Sec.  23.— If  any 
member  of  the  Order  or  other  person  cannot  attend 


221  R.  L.  VIII,  §24. 

the  taking  of  testimony  before  the  commissioner  as 
a  witness  on  either  side,  such  testimony  may  be 
taken  in  the  manner  herein  provided,  to-wit :  The 
party  desiring  the  testimony  of  such  witness  shall 
file  with  the  commissioner  written  interrogatories, 
to  be  propounded  to  the  witness,  the  opposite  party 
shall  then  be  privileged  to  prepare  and  file  with  the 
commissioner  counter-interrogatories  to  be  pro- 
pounded to  said  witness,  a  copy  of  said  interroga- 
tories and  counter-interrogatories  shall  be  forwarded 
by  the  Noble  Grand  and  Secretary  under  seal  of  the 
Lodge  to  the  Noble  Grand  of  the  Rebekah  Lodge 
nearest  to  said  witness,  which  Noble  Grand  shall, 
after  first  obligating  said  witness,  cause  said  wit- 
ness to  answer  each  of  said  interrogatories  and 
counter-interrogatories,  and  said  witness  shall  sub- 
scribe her  (or  his)  name  to  said  deposition,  and  the 
Noble  Grand  taking  the  same  shall  certify  that  the 
answers  have  been  correctly  written,  and  that  the 
witness  was  first  duly  obligated.  The  Noble  Grand 
shall  then  return  said  deposition  to  the  Secretary 
of  this  Lodge,  who  shall  deliver  the  same  to  the 
commissioner.  This  deposition  shall  be  subject  to 
all  objections  as  though  the  witness  had  personally 
appeared  before  the  commissioner.    (J.  1895,  p.  213.) 

1127.  JUDGMENT,  RECORD,  APPEAL, 
WHEN  VENUE  CHANGED.— Sec.  24.— When 
the  matter  has  been  determined,  a  copy  of  the  rec- 
ord of  the  proceedings  had  thereon,  with  the  regis- 
ter of  the  evidence,  shall  be  returned  to  the  remov- 
ing Lodge;  and  the  same  shall  be  filed  in  its  arch- 
ives, and  the  judgment  entered  upon  its  records. 
An  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge  may  be  had  in  case 
of  a  removed  trial  as  in  other  cases.  (J.  1895,  p. 
213.) 


R.  L.  VIII,  §25.  222 

1128.  When  under  a  change  of  venue  a  case  has  been 
determined  by  the  Trial  Lodge  and  its  records  returned 
to  the  removing  Lodge,  it  then  becomes  the  duty  of  the 
removing  Lodge  to  proceed  to  enforce  the  judgment 
reached  by  the  Trial  Lodge.  It  may  not  treat  the  judg- 
ment of  the  Trial  Lodge  as  advisory  merely,  and  proceed 
to  exercise  its  discretion.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  428,  675,  709.) 

1129.  CONTEMPT  OF  WITNESS.— Sec.  25. 

— If  any  member  of  the  Order  who  shall  have 
been  duly  notified  to  appear  and  give  evidence,  or 
appearing,  shall  refuse  to  answer  questions  as  a 
witness,  such  member  shall  be  deemed  guilty  of 
contempt,  and  the  Lodge  may  proceed  to  expel  said 
member  for  contempt.     (J.  1895,  p.  214.) 

1130.  In  the  case  of  J.  B.  Turner  Lodge,  No.  420,  vs. 
John  Blakely  et  al,  the  defendants  had  been  expelled  upon 
a  plea  of  guilty  to  charges  for  contempt  in  refusing  to 
answer  questions  as  witnesses  in  accordance  with  the 
provisions  of  the  preceding  Constitutional  requirement. 
They  sought  to  justify  their  action  in  refusing  to  answer 
questions  upon  the  ground  that  the  examination  had  been 
needlessly  prolonged,  and  the  witness  subjected,  hour 
after  hour,  to  answer  useless  and  immaterial  questions, 
apparently  with  no  other  purpose  than  that  of  testing  the 
patience,  disposition  for  amiability  and  physical  endurance 
of  the  witnesses.  The  Grand  Lodge  and  the  S.  G.  L. 
both  afifirm  the  judgment  of  the  Subordinate  Lodge  in 
expelling  the  defendants,  on  the  ground  that  in  order  to 
appeal  to  the  defense  of  justification,  it  was  necessary 
for  the  defendants  to  plead  "not  guilty."  Where  a  plea 
of  "guilty"  was  entered,  nothing  remained  to  be  done  but 
for  the  Subordinate  Lodge  to  inflict  the  penalty  of  ex- 
pulsion, which  was  definitely  fixed  by  law,  and  that  it 
was  a  waste  of  time,  and  improper,  to  show  mitigating 
circumstances,  as  that  could  only  be  done  under  a  plea 
of  "not  guilty."     (J.  1901,  p.  145,  285;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  267,  915.) 

1131.  LOSS  OF  MEMBERSHIP.  NO  DIS- 
TINCTION AS  TO  SEX.— Sec.  26.— A  sister  in 
this  Lodge  shall  not  lose  her  membership  by  the 
operation  of  any  rule  not  alike  applicable  to  broth- 


223  R.  L.  IX,  §1. 

ers.     (J.  1895,  p.  214;  Rebekah  Code,  vSec.  8;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  843.) 

ARTICLE  IX.— REINSTATEMENT. 

1132.  Suspension  is  only  a  temporary  punishment  to 
1)6  regulated  by  the  magnitude  of  the  offense,  and  must 
be  for  a  definite  time,  when  inflicted  for  misconduct,  at 
the  expiration  of  which  the  member  returns  to  good 
standing,  ipso  facto,  without  any  vote  or  formality. 
(W-1881,  §  732.)  Indefinite  suspension  for  N.  P.  D.  is 
terminated  by  vote  of  the  Lodge  without  any  further 
formality,  such  as  signing  the  Constitution  or  being  re- 
obligated.  (J.  Ill,  p.  162,  193,  200;  J.  1855,  p.  24;  J.  1907, 
Decision  No.  6,  p.  25,  408,  409.) 

1133.  The  question  of  the  reinstateinent  of  members 
who  have  been  suspended  for  non-payment  of  dues  has 
been  relegated  and  placed  under  the  control  of  the  several 
Grand  Lodges  and  Grand  Encampments,  and  all  laws  that 
conflict  therewith  have  been  repealed.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  895, 
954,  970.) 

1134.  It  has  been  held  that  the  reinstatement  of 
suspended  members,  under  the  above  mentioned  legisla- 
tion, is  left  entirely  to  the  control  of  Grand  Lodges,  and 
repeals  all  conflicting  laws.  But  in  case  the  Grand  Juris- 
diction has  not  taken  action  under  such  authority  the 
general  law  controls.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  26,  284,  314.) 

1135.  OF  DROPPED  MEMBERS.— Section  1. 
— A  member  dropped  for  non-payment  of  dues  from 
membership  in  this  Lodge  may,  upon  the  payment 
of  such  fees  as  the  By-Laws  shall  provide,  not  less 
than  one  year's  dues,  be  reinstated  upon  application 
made  in  writing  in  the  regular  form,  and  shall  be 
treated  in  all  respects  like  a  proposition  for  mem- 
bership as  hereinbefore  provided,  except  that  a  ma- 
jority vote  shall  be  necessary  to  elect.  Such  dropped 
member,  if  free  from  charges,  may,  upon  payment 
of  dues,  take  a  dismissal  certificate  in  the  first  in- 
stance or  after  being  denied  reinstatement.  (J. 
1895,  p.  214;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  23.) 


R.  L.  IX,  §1.  224 

1136.  A  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  married  a  man 
who  was  not  an  Odd  Fellow,  and  was  afterward  dropped 
for  non-payment  of  dues.  She  then  applied  for  reinstate- 
ment. Held,  that  she  was  seeking  no  new  right,  but  to 
retain  an  old  one  in  no  way  afifected  by  her  marriage, 
and  that  she  was  eligible  to  reinstatement.  (J.  IX,  p.  900; 
White'  Digest,  First  Edition,  Sections  1212  and  1213; 
Rebekah  Lodge  Constitution,  Article  IX.) 

1137.  It  is  legal  for  a  Rebekah  Lodge  to  refuse  to 
reinstate  a  sister  who  was  under  suspension  for  two 
years,  and  who  appealed  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  which  re- 
instated her,  if,  pending  such  appeal,  other  charges  were 
preferred  against  her  and  she  was  expelled.  (S.  J.  15171, 
15534,  15584.) 

1138.  Where  a  sister  petitions  a  Rebekah  Lodge  for 
reinstatement,  the  fact  that  she  received  the  Rebekah 
Degree  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge  of  which  her  first  hus- 
band was  a  member,  that  her  first  husband  died,  that  she 
is  now  married  to  a  man  who  is  not  an  Odd  Fellow,  do 
not  hinder  her  reinstatement  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
XX,  p.  36,  361,  371,  372.) 

1139.  Membership  (of  a  brother)  in  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  is  dependent  upon  the  brother's  continuous  good 
standing  in  his  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  a  brother  sus- 
pended for  non-payment  of  dues  in  his  Subordinate  Lodge 
is,  by  reason  thereof,  suspended  from  membership  in  the 
Rebekah  Lodge  to  which  he  belongs.  Such  suspension 
in  his  Rebekah  Lodge  dates  from  the  date  of  his  suspen- 
sion in  his  Subordinate  Lodge.  When  the  brother's  dis- 
abilities are  removed  in  the  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  he  is 
restored  to  good  standing  therein,  he  becomes  ipso  facto 
reinstated  in  his  Rebekah  Lodge,  provided  he  is  not  in 
arrears  for  dues  in  such  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  30,  365,  394.) 

1140.  Section  24  of  the  Rebekah  Code  does  not  pre- 
vent a  brother  who  has  asked  to  be  reinstated  in  his  Re- 
bekah Lodge  and  has  been  refused,  and  who  has  de- 
manded and  received  a  dismissal  certificate  and  paid  the 
price  required  by  Section  26,  from  applying  upon  that 
certificate  to  another  Rebekah  Lodge  for  membership 
immediately.  He  need  not  wait  six  months.  (S.  J.  14673, 
14948,  15019.) 


225  R.  L.  IX,  §1. 

1141.  To  reinstate  a  suspended  sister  to  membership, 
a  certificate  of  her  husband's  good  standing  in  his  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  is  not  required.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  32  284, 
314.) 

1142.  A  suspended  sister,  after  marrying  a  non-Odd 
Fellow,  may  be  reinstated  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
14239,  14487,  14570.) 

1143.  When  a  person  is  to  be  reinstated  on  the  pay- 
ment of  one  year's  dues,  the  rate  of  payment  at  the  time 
of  reinstatement  is  the  standard,  and  not  the  rate  at  the 
time  when  he  was  dropped.     (J.  V,  p.  379,  386.) 

1144.  When  a  member  ceases  membership  for  non- 
payment of  dues  and  afterwards  petitions  for  reinstate- 
ment, and  pays  the  amount  due  the  Lodge  as  its  fee  for 
reinstatement  and  is  then  rejected,  the  Lodge  must  re- 
turn him  said  amount.     (S.  J.  4871,  4896.) 

1145.  When  a  reinstatement  is  perfected  by  a  vote 
of  the  Lodge,  it  can  not  be  reconsidered  or  annulled.  (J. 
IV,  p.  238;  J.  V,  p.  793.) 

1146.  A  member  dropped  for  non-payment  of  dues, 
may  be  reinstated  without  regard  to  the  place  of  his  resi- 
dence, when  applying  for  reinstatement.  (J.  1901,  p.  8, 
319.) 

1147.  Upon  a  ballot  on  a  petition  for  reinstatement, 
three  white  balls  were  cast  and  three  black  balls.  The 
Noble  Grand  declared  the  brother  elected.  Held,  that 
the  petitioner  was  not  elected,  as  he  did  not  receive  a 
majority  of  the  votes  cast,  three  not  being  a  majority  of 
six,  and  that  the  Noble  Grand  should  recall  and  reverse 
his  ruling  on  said  ballot,  and  a  record  should  be  made  to 
the  effect  that  the  brother  was  not  elected  for  reinstate- 
ment, and  fees  paid  to  the  Lodge  for  such  reinstatement 
should  be  refunded.     (J.  1902,  p.  298.) 

1148.  A  brother  holding  an  expired  withdrawal  card 
can  not  petition  for  reinstatement  in  the  Lodge  which 
issued  the  card  but  must  petition  for  membership  as  an 
Ancient  Odd  Fellow.     (J.  1898,  p.  122.) 

1149.  Members  expelled  for  non-payment  of  dues  be- 
fore such  expulsion  was  forbidden,  shall  be  reinstated  as 
dropped  members.     (W-782;  T-1464.) 


R.  L.  IX,  §2.  226 

1150.  OF   EXPELLED    MEMBERS.— Sec.   2. 

— A  member  expelled  by  this  Lodge  may  apply 
in  writing  for  reinstatement.  The  application  shall 
be  referred  to  a  committee  of  three,  who  shall  ascer- 
tain whether  the  applicant  has  made  such  reforma- 
tion or  apology  as  is  appropriate,  and  shall  report  to 
the  Lodge.  After  reception  of  the  report,  the 
Lodge  shall  ballot  on  the  application.  If  two-thirds 
of  the  members  present  shall  vote  in  favor  of  rein- 
statement the  Secretary  shall  write  to  the  Grand 
Master  for  permission  to  reinstate  such  member, 
and,  if  it  be  granted,  reinstatement  shall  thereby  be 
accomplished.  No  expelled  member  shall  be  rein- 
stated without  the  payment  of  the  same  fee  that  is 
required  to  initiate.     (J.  1895,  p.  214.) 

1151.  Former  members  of  the  Order  who  were  ex- 
pelled on  account  of  their  membership  in  the  Patriarchal 
Circle  can  regain  membership  under  procedure  provided 
by  law  for  expelled  members.     (S.  J.  11895,  12217,  12281.) 

1152.  No  Lodge  can  reinstate  an  expelled  member  of 
its  own  motion.  The  consent  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to 
which  the  Lodge  is  subordinate,  or  of  the  Grand  Master 
by  its  authority,  is  absolutely  necessary  to  authorize  the 
restoration.     (S.  J.  5280,  5475,  5520,  5841,  5919,  5950.) 

1153.  A  member  expelled  must  first  apply  to  his 
former  Lodge,  and  if  that  Lodge  wishes  to  pass  upon  his 
case,  it  must,  by  petition,  obtain  consent  of  its  Grand 
Body;  that  consent  being  obtained,  the  whole  matter  goes 
to  the  Subordinate  Lodge  under  its  By-Laws  and  the 
general  laws  of  the  Order.  The  manner  in  which  expelled 
members  shall  be  reinstated  is  a  matter  for  local  legisla- 
tion.    (S.  J.  6275,  6313.) 

1154.  A  member  of  the  Order  expelled  in  one  jurisdic- 
tion shall  not  be  admitted  to  membership  in  another  juris- 
diction without  the  consent  of  the  Lodge  from  which  he 
was  expelled.  Any  reinstatement  without  such  consent  is 
void.     (S.  G.  L  Const.,  Art.  XVI,  Sec.  4;  S.  J.  1775,  1806.) 

1155.  A  member  expelled  in  another  jurisdiction  can 
be  admitted  to  membership  in  Illinois  only  upon  a  with- 


227  R.  L.  IX,  §2. 

drawal  card  from  the  Lodge  that  expelled  him,  or  some 
equivalent  paper  as  a  dismissal  certificate.  (J.  1855,  p.  23, 
126.) 

1156.  A  reinstatement  after  expulsion  (except  drop- 
ping for  non-payment  of  dues)  requires  the  same  vote  as 
an  expulsion,  viz.:  Two-thirds  of  the  qualified  members 
present,  except  in  case  where  a  dififerent  majority  is  speci- 
fically required  by  law.  No  conditions  or  terms  must  be 
offered  by  the  applicant  for  reinstatement,  or  prescribed 
by  law.  A  person  cannot  be  reinstated  into  any  other 
than  his  own  Lodge.     (J.  L  P-  209.) 

1157.  Petitions  to  the  Grand  Lodge  for  the  reinstate- 
ment of  expelled  members  must  be  accompanied  by  a 
statement  of  the  cause  of  the  expulsion,  and  of  the  prin- 
ciple facts  in  the  case;  they  must  also  show  that  the  ex- 
pelled member  has  made  such  reformation  or  reparation 
or  apology  as  is  appropriate.  (J.  1855,  p.  136.)  All  such 
petitions,  which  are  in  accordance  with  law,  may  go  to 
the  Grand  Master  and  be  acted  upon  by  him  in  recess  of 
the  Grand  Lodge.     (J.  1856,  p.  58.) 

1158.  When  a  member  has  been  expelled,  suspended 
for  any  cause,  or  dropped,  his  name  should  not  be  erased 
from  the  list  of  signatures  to  the  Constitution  and  By- 
Laws.  Consequently,  upon  restoration  to  membership, 
it  is  not  necessary  that  he  should  again  sign  the  Constitu- 
tion.    (J.  Ill,  p.  162,  193,  200.) 

1159.  A  member  who  is  reinstated  after  expulsion  is, 
by  reinstatement,  placed  in  the  same  position  as  if  he  had 
never  been  expelled,  and  from  the  date  of  his  reinstate- 
ment becomes  entitled  again  to  all  the  privileges  and 
honors  belonging  to  him  before  he  was  expelled.  (J. 
1855,   p.  24.) 

1160.  FORM  OF  PETITION  FOR  PER- 

MISSION TO  REINSTATE. 

Hall  of Lodge,  No ,  I.  O.  O.  F. 

To  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  I.  0.0.  F. 

Dear  Sirs  and  Brothers:     On  the day 

of 19 ,    was 

expelled  by  this  Lodge.     On  the day  of 

19 ,  he  applied  in  writing  for  rein- 
statement.    The  application  was  referred  to  a  committee 


R.  L.  IX,  §2.  228 

of  three  members,  which  committee,  after  due  investiga- 
tion, reported  recommending  that  the  request  be  granted. 
A  ballot  was  then  had  on  the  application,  when  two-thirds 
of  the  qualified  members  present  voted  in  favor  of  rein- 
statement. You  are,  therefore,  hereby  respectfully  re- 
quested to  grant  permission  to  this  Lodge  to  reinstate 
said 

Fee  paid  as  the  law  provided,  namely,  the  amount  re- 
quired from  one  of  like  age  for  initiation. 

By  order  of  the  Lodge, 
(Seal)  ,  Secretary. 

With  this  the  law  requires  that  the  Lodge  shall  send 
to  the  Grand  Master  a  statement  of  the  offense  for  which 
the  person  was  expelled,  giving  the  circumstances  so  far 
as  necessary,  for  that  officer's  information.  The  same 
document  must  show  also  that  the  expelled  person  has 
reformed,  and  made  reparation  or  apology.  The  Grand 
Secretary  can  furnish  printed  blank  for  this  petition. 
(T-1996.) 

116L  An  expelled  member  cannot  be  readmitted  to 
membership  by  another  Lodge  of  the  same  jurisdiction 
without  the  consent  of  the  Lodge  expelling  him,  notwith- 
standing permission  so  to  do  is  given  by  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  jurisdiction.     (S.  J.   10406,  10443.) 

1162.  If  there  is  no  local  law  prescribing  what  vote 
is  necessary  to  reinstate  an  expelled  member,  the  same 
vote  that  expelled  him  ought  to  be  had  to  restore  him. 
(S.  J.  5280,  5531.) 

1163.  No  Lodge  can  reinstate  an  expelled  member  of 
its  own  motion.  The  consent  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to 
which  the  Lodge  is  subordinate,  or  of  the  Grand  Master 
by  its  authority,  is  absolutely  necessary  to  authorize  the 
restoration.     (S.  J.  5280,  5919,  5950.) 

1164.  A  Grand  Lodge  of  the  state  may  confer  the 
power  on  the  Grand  Master  during  the  recess  to  grant  a 
petition  from  a  Lodge  to  restore  an  expelled  member  to 
said  Lodge.  (S.  J.  4467,  4598,  4614.)  Illinois  confers  this 
power.     (See  §  115Q supra.) 

1165.  OF     SUSPENDED     MEMBERS.— Sec. 

3. — When  a  suspended  or  expelled  member  shall 
be    reinstated    either    by    expiration    of    sentence 


229  R.  L.  X,  §1. 

or  action  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  notice  thereof  shall 
be  sent  without  delay  to  the  Grand  Secretary  and 
all  Rebekah  Lodges  in  the  same  place  and  nearest 
neighboring  Rebekah  Lodges.     (J.  1895,  p.  214.) 

ARTICLE  X.— CARDS,  DISMISSAL  CERTIFI- 
CATES AND  RESIGNATIONS. 

1166.  MEMBERSHIP  VOLUNTARILY 
TERMINATED.— Section  1.— A  member  of  this 
Lodge  may  end  membership  therein  by  taking  a 
withdrawal  card  or  a  dismissal  certificate,  and  a 
sister  may  end  her  membership  in  this  Lodge,  and 
in  the  Order  also,  by  presenting  a  written  resigna- 
tion of  membership.  No  resignation  of  member- 
ship or  application  for  withdrawal  card  or  dismissal 
certificate  shall  be  entertained  from  any  one  who 
is  not  clear  on  the  books.     (1896,  p.  307.) 

1167.  All  laws  and  decisions  of  the  S.  G.  L.  relating 
to  visiting  or  withdrawal  cards  or  dismissal  certificates, 
or  relating  to  applications  and  fees  for  same,  or  the  issu- 
ance, use,  force  and  effect  of  same,  applies  to  Rebekah 
Lodges.     (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  26;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  847.) 

1168.  Dismissal  certificates  for  members  of  Rebekah 
Lodges  are  to  be  printed  and  sold  at  same  price  as  other 
dismissal  certificates.     (S.  J.  11722,  11770.) 

1169.  In  a  Rebekah  Lodge  a  member  suspended  for 
the  non-payment  of  dues  has  the  right  to  demand  a  dis- 
missal certificate  on  the  payment  of  one  dollar,  without 
first  applying  for  reinstatement.  (S.  J.  14674,  14948,  15019.) 

1170.  In  a  Rebekah  Lodge  no  ballot  is  required  in 
granting  a  dismissal  certificate.    (S.  J.  14674,  14948,  15019.) 

1171.  The  holding  of  a  live  withdrawal  card  does  not 
sever  the  holder's  connection  with  the  Order,  but  only 
with  his  Lodge,  and  the  severance  in  this  case  is  not 
complete,  as  he  is  a  quasi -memher,  and  may  visit  Lodges. 
He  may  retain  his  membership  in  his  Encampment  and 
Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J.  15002,  15070.) 

1172.  Resignation  of  a  membership  is  inoperative 
unless  dues  are  paid  to  the  time  of  its  presentation.     The 


R.  L.  X,  §2.  230 

Lodge  should  not  give  such  a  one  a  certificate  of  resigna- 
tion.    (J.  1901,  p.  14,  270,  294.) 

1173.  Resignation  of  membership  does  not  become 
operative  until  the  close  of  the  meeting  v^-hen  it  is  pre- 
sented, therefore  such  a  member  is  privileged  to  remain 
to  the  close  of  the  meeting,  and  should  not  be  given  a 
certificate  of  resignation  until  then.  (J.  1901,  p.  14,  270, 
294.) 

1174.  WITHDRAWAL  CARD,  WHEN  AND 
TO  WHOM  GRANTED.— Section  2.— A  with- 
drawal card  may  be  granted  to  any  member  by  vote 
of  a  majority  upon  ball  ballot  at  a  regular 
meeting.  Application  therefor  must  be  made  by 
the  member  in  person  or  in  writing,  and  shall  lie 
over  until  the  next  regular  meeting  for  final  action ; 
except  that  when  the  applicant  has  left  the  vicinity 
of  the  Lodge,  or  it  is  his  or  her  known  purpose  to 
leave  before  the  next  regular  meeting,  or  to  join  in 
a  petition  for  a  new  Lodge,  the  card  may  be  granted 
without  delay.     (J.  1907,  p.  389,  424.) 

1175.  There  is  no  law  to  prevent  dissatisfied  members 
from  banding  themselves  together,  going  into  the  Lodge 
and  applying  for  withdrawal  cards  and  unitedly  Voting  to 
grant  themselves  withdrawal  cards  for  the  purpose  of 
applying  for  a  charter  for  a  new  Lodge  in  the  same  place. 
(S.  J.  XXH,  Dec.  21,  p.  432,  675,  709;  S.  J.  XXII,  Dec.  27, 
p.  435,  675,  709.) 

1176.  One  cannot  become  a  charter  member  of  a 
new  Lodge  without  first  severing  his  connection  with  his 
old  Lodge  by  procuring  a  withdrawal  card.  And  where 
a  new  Lodge  is  instituted  under  dispensation,  composed 
of  nine  alleged  charter  members,  and  upon  application 
for  a  charter  it  appears  that  eight  of  these  nine  so-called 
charter  members  hold  cards  dated  fifteen  days  later  than 
the  institution  of  such  new  Lodge,  the  institution  of  such 
new  Lodge  must  be  termed  to  have  been  illegal,  and  it  is 
error  for  the  Grand  Lodge  to  grant  it  a  charter.  (S.  J. 
XXII.  Report  15,  p.  688,  710.) 

1177.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  can  legally  refuse  to  grant 
a  withdrawal  card.     (S.  J.  15177,  15534,  15584.) 


231  R.  L.  X,  §2. 

1178.  A  brother  is  granted  a  withdrawal  card  from 
his  Subordinate  Lodge  on  December  14,  1896;  on  Septem- 
ber 10,  1897,  he  applies  for  admission  by  card,  and  is  re- 
jected; on  December  1,  1897,  he  applies  for  a  withdrawal 
card  from  the  Rebekah  Lodge.  It  is  held  that  the  Re- 
bekah  Lodge  of  which  he  is  a  member  has  the  right  to 
grant  him  a  withdrawal  card,  and  when  it  has  been  so 
granted,  he  has  a  right  to  visit  upon  it  for  twelve  months 
after  its  date.     (S.  J.  15757,  16071,  16116.) 

1179.  Upon  application  for  a  withdrawal  card,  should 
objection  be  made  as  to  its  being  granted,  it  will  be  proper 
to  withhold  the  granting  of  it  until  proper  investigation 
can  be  made,  as  it  is  a  certificate  of  good  character  and 
fitness  to  visit  for  one  year,  as  in  a  Subordinate  Lodge. 
(S.  J.   14674,   14948,  15019.) 

1180.  A  resignation  of  membership,  presented  at  a 
regular  meeting  when  no  written  charges  are  against  the 
member  resigning,  must  be  accepted,  and  must  take  effect 
at  the  close  of  that  meeting.  If  it  is  tabled,  or  action 
thereon  postponed  to  a  subsequent  meeting,  and  in  the 
meantime  charges  are  preferred  against  the  member  re- 
signing, and  entertained  by  the  Lodge,  all  proceedings 
had  in  the  Lodge  thereon,  after  the  resignation  of  the 
member,  are  null  and  void  and  of  no  efifect.  (J.  1905,  p. 
161;  But  See  §  1184  and  §  1213  infra.) 

1181.  The  granting  of  a  withdrawal  card  severs  the 
connection  of  a  member  with  a  Lodge,  whether  taken  or 
not.     (S.  J.  1734,  1797;  See  §  1229  infra.) 

1182.  A  person  who  has  resigned  his  membership  is 
recognized  as  bearing  some  relation  to  the  Order;  so  is 
one  who  has  suffered  his  withdrawal  card  to  expire  with- 
out renewing  membership;  such  persons  are  called  Ancient 
Odd  Fellows,  and,  in  some  sense  are  thus  recognized  as 
Odd  Fellows.  (S.  J.  1841,  1921,  1956,  1992,  2115,  2170, 
3621.) 

1183.  A  member  in  good  standing  and  free  from 
indebtedness  may,  on  his  own  application,  withdraw  from 
tlie  Order  without  taking  a  withdrawal  card.  Such  resig- 
nation of  membership  completely  severs  his  connection 
with  the  Order,  and  he  is  no  longer  subject  to  its  juris- 
diction. A  member  cannot  resign  while  charges  are  pend- 
ing against  him.     (S.  J.  805,  1449,  1480,  7089.) 


R.  L.  X,  §2.  232 

1184.  A  Lodge  is  not  bound  to  accept  a  resignation 
of  membership  where  there  is  known  grounds  for  charges 
against  the  member  offering  it,  but  in  that  case  measures 
must  be  taken  to  bring  the  charges  immediately;  other- 
wise the  resignation  must  be  accepted.  No  further  action 
is  necessary  on  a  resignation  to  which  there  is  no  objec- 
tion than  to  have  the  fact  entered  on  the  record  and  to 
issue  the  certificate  of  resignation.  (J.  I,  p.  301,  310;  J.  V, 
p.  82;  J.  1853,  p.  30;  See  §  1219  iufra.) 

1185.  A  brother  loses  his  good  standing  in  the  Or- 
der when  he  renounces  it;  if  he  continues  his  connection 
thereafter,  it  must  be  considered  that  he  recalls  or  re- 
pents of  it;  and  if  the  Lodge  allows  such  connection  to 
continue,  it  condones  and  forgives  the  offense  and  is 
estopped  ever  afterwards  from  pleading  the  same  as 
against  the  brother  or  his  widow  and  children,  and  more 
especially  should  this  be  held  after  a  period  of  seven 
years  has  elapsed.  (S.  J.  6596,  6612,  6643,  6689,  10405, 
10443.) 

1186.  The  preference  of  a  Masonic  to  an  Odd  Fellow 
burial  is  no  evidence  whatever  of  a  renunciation.  (S.  J. 
10405,  10443.) 

1187.  The  refusal  of  a  charter  by  the  Grand  Lodge 
to  a  Lodge  working  under  dispensation  terminates  mem- 
bership.    (S.  J.  14680,  15078,  15093.) 

1188.  A  card  is  a  certificate  of  membership.  Cards 
are  of  two  kinds:  (1)  Visiting,  called  also  traveling;  (2) 
Withdrawal,  called  sometimes  final,  permanent  or  clear- 
ance. The  visiting  card  is  a  certificate  of  membership  in 
a  Lodge,  and  evidences  the  good  standing  of  the  holder 
and  payment  of  dues  to  a  certain  time,  during  which  time 
he  may  visit  Lodges  by  use  of  his  card.  The  withdrawal 
card  is  a  certificate  of  membership  m  the  Order,  but  of 
withdrawal  from  a  Lodge;  it  is  current  for  visiting  for 
one  year  only;  it  is  also  to  be  used  in  regaining  member- 
ship in  a  Lodge.  There  are  also  visiting,  withdrawal  cards 
and  dismissal  certificates  for  Rebekah  Lodges.     (T-1556.) 

1189.  The  Financial  Secretary,  if  there  be  one,  should 
sign  an  ofificial  certificate  or  card,  but  the  Recording  Sec- 
retary only  can  affix  the  seal.  (S.  J.  15164,  15534,  15584, 
15613;  T-1564rt.) 


233  R.  L.  X,  §2. 

1190.  Indebtedness  for  money  loaned  on  security  is 
not  cause  for  refusing  a  withdrawal  card.  (J.  Ill,  p.  24, 
42.) 

1191.  The  Secretary  has  no  right  to  withhold  a  card 
which  has  been  granted  by  a  Lodge,  and  for  doing  so  he 
is  liable  to  arraignment,  even  if  the  responsibility  be  as- 
sumed on  the  alleged  discovery  of  crime  on  the  part  of 
the  intended  recipient.     (S.  J.  1840,  1897,  1952.) 

1192.  Where  the  local  law  requires  payment  for  a 
card,  the  Lodge  or  the  officer  whose  duty  it  is  to  issue  it, 
has  the  right  to  require  payment  therefor  before  deliver- 
ing it.     (S.  J.  2482,  2504.) 

1193.  All  cards  and  certificates  must  be  signed  by  the 
holder  thereof  in  the  presence  of  the  officer  by  whom  the 
A.  T.  P.  W.  is  communicated.  (S.  J.  2664,  2673;  But  See 
Decisions  18-21,  inclusive;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  28.) 

1194.  The  highest  title  a  brother  has  attained  in  the 
Order  should  be  stated  on  the  visiting  card  or  dismissal 
certificate.     (S.  J.  7735,  7831.) 

1195.  Upon  such  card  certifying  that  the  holder  is  a 
Past  Grand,  the  Lodge  is  bormd  to  recognize  and  give  the 
Past  Grand  regalia.     (S.  J.  4467.) 

1196.  The  legal  course  to  pursue  with  a  card  pre- 
sented without  the  holder's  signature  is  to  return  it  to  him 
without  remark  other  than  "It  is  informal."  (J.  Ill,  p. 
549,  564,  565.) 

1197.  If  a  person  elected  to  membership  does  not 
consummate  his  membership  by  signing  the  Constitution, 
the  Lodge  has  no  right  to  grant  him  a  withdrawal  card, 
unless  membership  has  been  acquired  by  use;  otherwise 
the  proper  course  is  to  return  the  card  which  he  deposits. 
(J.  V,  p.  14,  90,  91.) 

1198.  A  brother  who  has  lost  or  been  dispossessed 
of  a  withdrawal  card,  from  no  cause  which  should  im- 
peach his  own  conduct,  may  obtain  a  new  card,  bearing 
the  same  date,  from  the  Lodge  which  granted  the  original 
one,  the  said  Lodge  being  the  judge  as  to  the  propriety 
of  granting  a  new  issue,  and,  if  granted,  expressing  on  its 
face  that  it  is  a  duplicate.     (S.  J.  1841,  1896,  1952.) 

1199.  It  is  not  necessary  or  proper  to  reconsider  or 
rescind  a  vote  granting  a  withdrawal  card,  in  order  to  ar- 


R.  L.  X,  §2.  234 

raign  the  brother  to  whom  such  a  card  may  have  been 
given;  because  the  card  having  been  voted,  the  member- 
ship of  the  brother  ceases,  and  he  has  a  legal  right  to  the 
card,  which,  if  he  desires  to  renew  his  membership,  he 
can  deposit  in  the  usual  mode,  or,  if  it  has  been  indis- 
creetly granted  to  an  unworthy  brother,  the  Lodge  may 
annul  it,  taking  care  to  allow  the  brother  implicated  a 
fair  and  impartial  trial,  as  to  other  members  against 
whom  charges  are  preferred.  (S.  J.  1841,  1898,  1952,  4716, 
4842,  4870.)  A  card  upon  annulment  becomes  void,  (J. 
VI,  p.  64,  114,  116;  See  §  1221  infra.) 

1200.  No  Lodge  or  member  has  the  right  to  place 
any  extra  writing  on  the  edge  of  a  visiting  or  withdrawal 
card,  setting  forth  the  facts  not  provided  for  in  the  regu- 
lar form  of  the  card.     (S.  J.  14574,  14608.) 

1201.  The  S.  G.  L.  has  prescribed  the  form  of  visit- 
ing and  withdrawal  cards  to  be  exclusively  issued  through- 
out its  jurisdiction.  All  cards  must  be  in  the  prescribed 
form  and  bear  the  counter-signature  of  the  Grand  Secre- 
tary of  the  S.  G.  L.  or  a  fac-simile  thereof.  They  must  be 
signed  by  the  Noble  Grand  and  attested  by  the  Secretary 
of  the  Lodge  and  be  under  seal.  They  must  be  signed 
by  the  holder  thereof  on  the  margin  in  his  own  hand- 
writing in  the  presence  of  the  officer  communicating  the 
A.  T.  P.  W.  (S.  J.  108,  342,  649,  677,  911,  2664,  2673;  See 
§   1193    supra.) 

1202.  In  issuing  visiting  and  withdrawal  cards  it  is 
mandatory  to  insert  therein  the  highest  rank  the  brother 
has  attained,  whether  in  Subordinate  Grand  Lodge  or 
Sovereign  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  23,  365,  394.) 

1203.  All  withdrawal  cards,  visiting  cards  and  cer- 
tificates for  dues,  assessments,  fees,  etc.,  should  be  signed 
by  the  holder  thereof  in  the  presence  of  the  oflficer  by 
whom  the  A.  T.  P.  W.  or  A.  P.  W.  is  communicated. 
(S.  J.  15535,  15614.) 

1204.  The  cards  bearing  the  name  of  James  L.  Ridg- 
ley,  Grand  Secretary,  are  legal,  and  may  be  issued  since 
the  death  of  Brother  Ridgley.  The  same  is  true  concern- 
ing the  cards  which  have  on  the  margin  the  fac-simile  of 
Brother  Theo.  A.  Ross,  Grand  Secretary,  (and  J.  Frank 
Grant,  Grand  Secretary.)     (S.  J.  15509,  15580.) 


235  R.  L.  X,  §2. 

1205.  A  card  is  complete  without  the  counter-signa- 
ture of  the  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  in 
which  it  is  issued.     (S.  J.  Ill,  804.) 

1206.  A  card  formally  issued  and  in  use  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Australia  is  interdicted,  and  the  Order  at  large 
is  warned  not  to  recognize  or  receive  it.  (S.  J.  7463,  7506; 
See  §  1223  infra.) 

1207.  Grand  Lodges,  through  their  proper  officers, 
shall  be  permitted  to  issue  to  members  of  defunct  Lodges 
withdrawal  cards  or  dismissal  certificates  according  to  the 
standing  of  the  brother  when  the  Lodge  surrendered  its 
charter,  and  members  holding  such  cards  and  certificates 
shall  have  the  same  privilege,  and  are  to  be  recognized 
by  every  Lodge  to  which  they  may  be  presented,  whether 
in  or  out  of  the  jurisdiction  issuing  them,  as  having  the 
same  force  and  efifect  as  a  withdrawal  card  or  dismissal 
certificate  that  has  been  issued  by  an  existing  Lodge  in 
good  standing,  and  will  enable  the  holder  to  join  another 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  251,  319,  353.) 

1208.  Under  this  law.  Grand  Bodies  can  now  issue 
withdrawal  cards  and  dismissal  certificates  to  all  classes 
of  members  of  defunct  Subordinates.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  513, 
827,  873.) 

1209.  A  defunct  certificate  is  distinctly  different  from 
a  dismissal  certificate,  and  applies  to  a  different  class  of 
brothers.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.) 

1210.  Dismissal  certificates  may  be  issued  by  Grand 
Bodies  to  those  in  good  standing  when  the  Lodge  was 
suspended,  and  who  apply  for  the  same  after  one  year 
from  the  date  of  suspension,  or  in  other  words,  after  the 
time  when  he  would  be  entitled  to  a  withdrawal  card. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.)  The  officers  of  a  Grand 
Lodge  can  issue  a  dismissal  certificate  or  withdrawal  card 
to  a  member  of  a  defunct  Subordinate,  according  to  the 
standing  of  the  brother  at  the  time  of  the  surrender  of 
the  charter  of  the  Subordinate;  in  other  words,  the  brother 
who  was  entitled  to  receive  either  of  such  certificates 
from  a  Lodge  at  the  time  of  the  surrender  of  its  charter 
is  now  entitled  to  receive  either  from  the  Grand  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.) 

1211.  A  Grand  Secretary  is  authorized  to  issue  the 
proper  credential  to  a  member  of  a  defunct  Lodge  who 


R.  L.  X,  §2. 236 

pleads  guilty  in  ihe  courts  of  the  state  to  a  felony,  is 
sentenced,  and  serves  a  number  of  years  in  the  peniten- 
tiary, is  pardoned,  and  afterwards  applies  for  such  cre- 
dentials, if  no  proceedings  by  the  Order  were  had  against 
him.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  48,  361,  371,  372.) 

1212.  Grand  Bodies  can  issue  a  dismissal  certificate, 
or  withdrawal  card,  to  a  member  of  a  defunct  Subordin- 
ate, according  to  the  member's  standing  when  the  charter 
was  surrendered.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.) 

1213.  A  member  in  good  standing  can  resign  at  any 
time  before  charges  have  been  preferred  against  him; 
provided,  that  if  charges  against  a  member  and  a  resigna- 
tion of  such  member  be  presented  at  the  same  meeting 
of  his  Lodge,  such  resignation  shall  not  be  operative  until 
the  proper  disposition  of  such  charges.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  19, 
371,  396;  See  §  1219  infra  and  204  supra;  See  Rep.  83  and 
84  S.  G.  L.  1901,  p.  362,  364,  372,  373.) 

1214.  A  resignation  of  membership  in  the  Order 
takes  effect  from  the  time  it  is  presented  at  the  regular 
meeting  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  517,  827,  873.) 

1215.  A  brother  who  has  resigned  his  membership, 
cannot  thereafter  visit  his  old  Lodge  until  he  has  been 
regularly  elected  to  membership  again.     (J.  1901,  p.  8,  319.) 

1216.  A  brother  who  has  resigned  his  membership, 
and  later  desires  to  go  back  into  the  Lodge,  must  petition 
for  membership  as  an  Ancient  Odd  Fellow,  in  the  same 
manner  as  if  he  had  never  held  membership  in  the  Lodge. 
(J.   1901,  p.  8,  319.) 

1217.  A  rubber  stamp  fac-simile  signature  on  a  card 
or  official  certificate  is  legal,  but  such  signatures  are  dis- 
couraged and  had  better  not  be  used.  The  same  is  true 
of  a  rubber  impression  of  the  regular  Lodge  seal.  (J. 
1901,  p.  13,  319.) 

1218.  If  a  rubber  stamp  fac-simile  signature  is  used 
at  all,  it  should  be  used  only  by  the  officer  whose  signa- 
ture it  is.     (J.  1901,  p.  13,  319.) 

1219.  If  charges,  in  accordance  with  the  laws  of  the 
jurisdiction,  have  been  preferred,  and  are  pending  against 
a  brother,  or,  are  preferred  at  the  same  meeting  at  which 
his  resignation  is  tendered,  he  cannot  resign  membership 


237  R.  L.  X,  §2. 

until  the  said  charges  have  been  legally  disposed  of.     (S. 
J.  XXI,  p.  753,  820;  See  §  1213  supra.) 

1220.  A  Lodge  may  grant  a  brother  a  withdrawal 
card  while  he  is  working  under  a  prohibitory  occupation, 
but  it  could  also  refuse  it.  The  question  of  granting  the 
withdrawal  card  is  in  the  discretion  of  the  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
XXn,  p.  30,  219,  243.) 

1221.  A  Lodge  granting  a  withdrawal  card  has  the 
power  to  annul  it,  for  good  cause,  between  its  granting 
and  the  expiration,  upon  giving  notice;  where  charges  are 
pending,  notice  is  not  required.  After  the  expiration  of 
the  twelve  months,  the  card  becomes  null  and  all  juris- 
diction over  the  holder  ceases.  (S.  J.  1722,  1797,  1401, 
1476,  1512;  See  §  1199  supra.) 

1222.  A  brother  cannot  take  a  withdrawal  card,  pend- 
ing an  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  upon  charges  preferred 
against  him  in  his  own  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  504,  827, 
873;  J.  V,  p.  313,  358,  362.) 

1223.  During  the  War  of  the  Secession,  some  of  the 
Southern  Jurisdictions  issued  cards  of  their  own  device, 
being  unable  to  procure  those  issued  by  the  S.  G.  L. 
Therefore,  in  1865,  the  S.  G.  L.  passed  the  following  reso- 
lution: 

"Resolved,  That  visiting  and  withdrawal  cards,  here- 
tofore issued  by  any  Southern  Jurisdiction,  countersigned 
by  the  Grand  Secretary  and  attested  by  the  seal  of  the 
Grand  Body  issuing  the  same,  shall  be  taken  and  deemed 
to  be  as  effectual  as  if  the  same  had  borne  the  counter- 
signature or  a  fac-simile  thereof,  of  the  Grand  Secretary  of 
the  S.  G.  L."  Such  visiting  cards  are  no  longer  in  use, 
but  such  withdrawal  cards  may  be  presented  by  Ancient 
Odd  Fellows  for  years  to  come.  The  Grand  Lodge  of 
Australia  issued,  about  1876,  a  withdrawal  card  which 
Lodges  are  forbidden  to  recognize  or  receive.  (S.  J.  3801, 
3812,  7463,  7506.) 

1224.  Upon  regular  application,  a  withdrawal  card 
must  be  granted  or  refused  by  ballot,  if  there  are  no 
charges  against  the  applicant.  (S.  J.  3827,  3846;  J.  IV,  p. 
234;  See  §  1248  infra.) 

1225.  If  a  Lodge  violates  the  law  which  requires  all 
applications  for  withdrawal  cards  to  be  made  in  writing. 


R.  L.  X,  §2.  238 

or  in  person,  and  grants  the  card  on  a  proxy  application, 
the  grant  is  void^  if  the  brother  to  whom  it  is  made  re- 
fuses to  accept  the  card.  A  letter  addressed  to  the  Finan- 
cial Secretary,  with  money,  asking  for  a  withdrawal  card, 
makes  proper  application  for  the  card.  (J.  V,  p.  13,  90, 
91,  664,  751,  753.) 

1226.  An  application  for  a  withdrawal  card,  being 
once  made  in  accordance  with  the  law,  need  not  be  re- 
newed, even  though  the  Lodge  adjourns  without  action. 
(S.  J.  6204,  6262.) 

1227.  Since  application  for  withdrawal  cards  must 
lie  over  for  one  week  for  action,  a  card  granted  on  the 
night  of  application,  contrary  to  Section  2,  Article  X  (§ 
1174  supra,)  of  the  Rebekah  Constitution  is  illegally 
granted;  and  the  Lodge  must  rescind  its  action,  and  the 
brother's  connection  with  the  Lodge  is  not  severed.  A 
vote  granting  a  withdrawal  card  upon  the  condition  that 
dues  be  paid  before  the  card  is  issued  is  illegal,  and  does 
not  sever  connection  with  the  Lodge.  The  dues  must  be 
paid  before  the  vote.  (J.  IH,  p.  549,  565;  J.  V,  p.  13,  90, 
91.) 

1228.  An  application  of  a  brother  for  a  card  "with 
privilege  of  deposit"  should  be  granted.  The  words  "with 
privilege  to  deposit"  are  to  be  regarded  as  surplusage. 
If  the  card  is  voted,  it  carries  with  it  the  right  of  deposit 
without  written  permission.      (S.  J.  7883.) 

1229.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  having  granted  a  with- 
drawal card  to  a  member,  and  afterwards  ascertaining 
that,  by  mistake  or  otherwise,  he  was  in  debt  to  the 
Lodge,  the  Lodge  cannot  legally  call  on  him  for  the  said 
indebtedness,  unless  fraud  or  wrong  on  his  part  be  shown. 
But  if  a  brother  taking  a  withdrawal  card  has  paid  his 
dues  in  advance,  the  Lodge  must  refund  them.  And  if  a 
brother  asks  for  a  withdrawal  card  and  it  is  granted,  but 
he  does  not  take  it  and  continues  to  pay  dues  to  the 
Lodge,  he  is  not  a  member,  and  his  dues  must  be  refunded 
to  him.  (J.  1853,  p.  78;  J.  1856,  p.  18,  20;  See  §  1181 
supra. ) 

1230.  Pending  a  decision  on  the  granting  of  a  with- 
drawal card,  charges  may  be  preferred  against  a  brother 
making  application  therefor;  under  such  circumstances, 
the  vote  on  granting  the  card  should  not  be  taken  until 


239  R.  L.  X,  §2. 

the  charges  be   withdrawn,   or  a  trial   be  had  upon   them. 
(S.  J.   1992,  2115,  2170.) 

1231.  Notice  of  an  intention  to  prefer  charges  or  lay 
an  information  amounts  to  nothing.  The  information 
must  be  actually  put  in  the  hands  of  the  Noble  Grand  to 
authorize  withholding  the  card.  (J.  I,  p.  244,  301,  310; 
J.  1856,  p.  43.) 

1232.  A  brother  has  the  right  to  withdraw  an  ap- 
plication for  final  card  before  a  vote  upon  granting  it  has 
been  taken.     (S.  J.  1635,  1655.) 

1233.  A  brother  placed  his  application  for  a  with- 
drawal card  in  the  hands  of  the  Noble  Grand.  Before  the 
next  regular  meeting  he  notified  several  members  of  the 
Lodge  that  he  decided  to  have  his  application  withdrawn. 
The  members  to  whom  the  notice  was  given  did  not  at- 
tend the  meeting  of  the  Lodge  and  the  vote  was  taken 
which  resulted  in  granting  the  card.  But  the  card  was 
not  issued  or  delivered,  and  at  the  next  meeting  of  the 
Lodge  the  brother  appeared  and  asked  the  Lodge  to 
rescind  its  action  in  granting  the  card.  Held,  the  Lodge 
had  power  to  rescind  under  the  circumstances.  (S  J 
XXn,  p.  426,  675,  709.) 

1234.  If  a  withdrawal  card  is  deposited  with  a  peti- 
tion for  membership  during  its  validity,  it  is  to  be  treated 
as  a  live  card  for  the  purpose  of  balloting  on  the  applica- 
tion of  the  candidate,  even  though  the  report  of  the  In- 
vestigating Committee  comes  in  and  ballot  is  had  after 
the  expiration  of  the  card.     (S.  J.  10864,  10902.) 

1235.  A  withdrawal  card  being  a  recommendation 
for  twelve  months,  the  policy  and  interest  of  the  Order 
require  that  the  Lodge  which  granted  it  have  power 
to  withdraw  or  annul  it  for  good  cause  arising  between 
the  time  it  was  issued  and  the  date  of  its  expiration. 
After  the  expiration  of  twelve  months,  the  card  becomes 
utterly  null,  and  all  jurisdiction  over  the  holder  ceases 
(S.  J.   1722,   1797.) 

1236.  When  the  holder  of  a  withdrawal  card  has, 
within  a  few  months  after  its  issue,  deposited  the  same 
in,  and  thereby  become  a  member  of  another  Lodge,  the 
Lodge  issuing  such  card  has  no  power  to  annul  it  (S  J 
3030,  3083,  3113.) 


R.  L.  X,  §2. 240 

1237.  The  effect  of  the  annulment  of  a  card  is  to 
revoke  it,  and,  instead  of  expelling  the  brother  from  the 
Order,  to  bring  him  back  into  the  Lodge,  where,  after 
due  notice  of  the  charges  against  him  which  have  induced 
the  Lodge  to  abrogate  his  card,  and  fair  and  impartial 
trial  thereof,  he  may  be  expelled  or  acquitted.  (S.  J. 
2145,  2177.) 

1238.  Where  charges  were  preferred  against  the 
holder  of  a  withdrawal  card  and  the  card  annulled,  it  was 
held,  after  the  trial  and  acquittal  of  the  brother,  that  his 
position  in  the  Lodge  was  the  same  as  if  the  card  had 
never  been  granted.   (S.  J.  8838,  9025,  9101.) 

1239.  If  a  withdrawal  card  is  ordered  upon  the  vote 
of  less  than  a  quorum  of  qualified  members  it  is  void,  and 
the  applicant  therefor  still  holds  his  membership  in  the 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  8108,  8178.) 

1240.  A  Grand  Master  has  no  right  to  compel  the 
Lodge  to  issue  a  withdrawal  card  after  the  Lodge  has 
refused,  and  given  as  the  reason  that  they  were  unwilling 
to  recommend  the  brother  to  all  Odd  Fellows.  (S.  J. 
14574,   14608.) 

1241.  A  withdrawal  card  may  be  annulled  by  a  Lodge 
before  charges  pending  against  a  brother  have  been 
proven.     (S.  J.  9159,  9324,  9442.) 

1242.  When  the  application  for  a  withdrawal  card  is 
made  by  the  Secretary  of  the  Lodge  to  which  the  brother 
has  been  elected,  in  writing,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge, 
authority  from  the  brother  to  make  such  application  shall 
be  "presumed"  in  the  absence  of  evidence  to  the  con- 
trary.    (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  256,  389,  398.) 

1243.  If  a  brother  applies  for  a  withdrawal  card  and 
pays  for  the  same,  and  also  pays  his  dues  up  to  the  date 
of  his  application  for  the  said  card,  he  has  complied  with 
the  law.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  26,  361,  371,  372.) 

1244.  Application  for  withdrawal  cards  must  be  made 
to  and  granted  by  the  Lodge,  and  not  an  officer  of  the 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  15750,  16030,  16054.) 

1245.  A  withdrawal  card  written  in  the  Dutch 
language  is  as  valid  as  if  written  in  English.  (S.  J. 
12093,   12149.) 


241  R.  L.  X,  §2. 

1246.  Withdrawal  cards  granted  to  members  of  a 
defunct  Lodge  by  a  Grand  Lodge  are  only  good  for  one 
year  from  the  date  of  suspension.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  513, 
827,  873.) 

1247.  A  brother  being  a  member  of  J.  Ward  Ellis 
Lodge  petitioned  for  membership  in  Jackson  Park  Lodge 
on  an  official  certificate.  Jackson  Park  Lodge  elected  him 
to  membership,  after  which  the  brother  made  application 
to  J.  Ward  Ellis  Lodge  for  a  withdrawal  card,  which  was 
acted  upon  instantly,  the  card  granted,  made  out  and  de- 
livered to  the  brother,  who  then  retired  from  the  Lodge 
room.  Thereafter,  and  during  the  same  session  of  said 
J.  Ward  Ellis  Lodge,  and  prior  to  adjournment,  but  after 
the  brother  had  retired  from  the  Lodge  room,  a  motion 
was  regularly  made  to  annul  said  card,  for  the  reason 
that  it  had  been  improperly  granted.  The  motion  was 
sustained,  card  declared  annulled,  and  the  Secretary  di- 
rected to  notify  Jackson  Park  Lodge  of  such  action,  which 
notice  was  received  by  Jackson  Park  Lodge.  After  re- 
ceiving said  notice,  Jackson  Park  Lodge  admitted  the 
brother  to  membership  and  he  signed  its  Constitution. 
At  the  time  the  brother  applied  for  and  received  said 
withdrawal  card,  there  was  then  in  the  hands  of  the 
Noble  Grand  of  said  J.  Ward  Ellis  Lodge  a  complaint  in 
writing,  duly  signed,  which  complaint  had  been  duly  re- 
ferred to  a  committee,  and  the  committee  afterwards  re- 
ported charges  of  misconduct.  On  hearing  of  said  charges, 
one  of  the  pleas  filed  by  the  defendant  was  a  plea  to  the 
jurisdiction  of  J.  Ward  Ellis  Lodge  to  try  the  accused. 
It  was  held  that  the  withdrawal  card  issued  by  J.  Ward 
Ellis  Lodge  was  improperly  issued,  and  that  the  Lodge 
had  authority  to  annul,  and  did  annul  it;  that  notice  of 
said  card  being  annulled  having  been  received  by  the 
Secretary  of  Jackson  Park  Lodge,  the  action  of  Jackson 
Park  Lodge  in  thereafter  receiving  the  brother  to  mem- 
bership was  illegal;  that  the  brother's  membership  in  J. 
Ward  Ellis  Lodge  was  not  dissolved  or  cancelled,  not- 
withstanding the  issuing  of  said  card,  and  that  J.  Ward 
Ellis  Lodge  had  jurisdiction  to  prefer  charges  and  speci- 
fications at  the  time  said  charges  were  preferred,  and  to 
try  the  case.     (J.  1900,  p.  134;  J.  1901,  p.  292.) 

1248.  Where  a  withdrawal  card  has  been  issued  on 


R.  L.  X,  §3. 242 

a  vote  taken  by  voting  sign  instead  of  by  ball  ballot,  and 
both  the  Lodge  and  the  brother  have  treated  the  card  as 
legally  issued,  he  is  estopped  in  his  life  time  from  assert- 
ing its  illegality,  and  so  after  his  death  those  claiming 
under  him  are  also  bound  by  the  estopple.  And  a  card 
granted  in  a  like  manner  and  deposited  in  another  Lodge, 
will  transfer  his  membership  to  the  Lodge  in  which  the 
card  is  deposited.     (S.  J.  XXL  p.  533,  752,  820.) 

1249.  It  is  proper  for  a  Lodge  to  report  to  the  Lodge 
granting  a  withdrawal  card  any  conduct  on  the  part  of 
the  holder  calculated  to  injure  the  Order  in  the  eyes  of 
the  community  at  large.     (S.  J.  1722,  1797.) 

1250.  VISITING  CARDS  AND  DISMISSAL 
CERTIFICATES.— Section  3.— Dismissal  certifi- 
cates shall  be  issued  to  members  who  have  been 
dropped  for  non-payment  of  dues  on  the  payment 
of  one  dollar.  Visiting  cards  shall  be  granted  upon 
request,  upon  the  payment  of  the  price  of  the  card 
and  the  dues  to  the  expiration  thereof.  No  vote  is 
necessary  to  grant  a  visiting  card  or  a  dismissal 
certificate.  Should  objections  in  either  case  be 
made  for  cause,  the  ground  thereof  shall  be  stated, 
and  it  shall  suspend  the  issuing  until  after  the  in- 
vestigation of  said  objections.  The  Lodge  shall 
promptly  investigate  such  objections,  and  if  found 
to  be  sufficient  by  a  majority  vote  of  the  members 
present,  the  card  or  certificate  shall  not  be  issued 
until  the  grounds  of  objection  be  removed.  If  the 
objection  is  removed,  or  is  found  not  to  be  suffi- 
cient, the  card  shall  be  issued  immediately.  A  sus- 
pended member  cannot  take  a  card  or  a  dismissal 
certificate.  Should  the  Lodge  refuse  to  grant  any 
member  a  withdrawal  card,  such  member  may,  if 
clear  on  the  books,  tender  a  written  resignation  of 
membership ;  he  or  she  shall  then  be  entitled  to 
receive  from  the  Secretary  a  certificate  under  the 
seal  of  the  Lodge  certifving  that  he  or  she  has  re- 


243  R.  L.  X,  §3. 

signed  membership,  as  evidence  of  his  or  her  good 
standing  at  that  time.     (J.  1907,  p.  389,  390,  424.) 

CERTIFICATES  OF  RESIGNATION: 

1251.  A  brother  having  resigned  membership  is  en- 
titled to  a  certificate.  If  under  charges,  his  resignation 
cannot  be  accepted  and  the  trial  must  proceed.  Certifi- 
cates of  resignation  are  not  granted  on  vote  of  the  Lodge, 
but  issued  by  proper  officers.  No  particular  form  is  pre- 
scribed.    (J.  V,  p.  137,  202,  230.) 

1252.  A  Lodge  shall  vote  by  ballot  upon  appli- 
cations for  final  cards  made  in  accordance  with  existing 
laws;  and  the  affirmative  vote  of  a  majority  of  the  mem- 
bers present  shall  be  necessary  to  the  granting  of  such 
cards.  Upon  a  ballot,  should  a  majority  of  the  members 
present  refuse  their  consent  to  the  granting  of  a  final  card, 
the  brother  applying  therefor,  upon  the  payment  of  all 
dues  and  tendering  a  written  resignation  of  his  member- 
ship, and  not  being  otherwise  disqualified,  shall  be  en- 
titled to  receive  from  the  Secretary,  under  seal,  a  cer- 
tificate that  he  has  resigned  his  membership;  and  such 
certificate  shall  be  sufficient  evidence  of  the  brother's 
good  standing  at  the  time  of  his  resignation.  Provided, 
however,  that  upon  such  refusal  the  brother  shall  have 
the  right  to  appeal  to  the  Grand  Body  of  his  jurisdiction. 
Final  cards  are  granted  only  by  vote  of  the  Lodge,  the 
vote  to  be  had  by  ball  ballot.  (S.  J.  3827,  3846,  9273,  9346, 
4716,  4842,  4870.) 

VISITING  CARD: 

1253.  A  Lodge  has  no  right  to  refuse  to  grant  a 
brother  a  visiting  card  who  is  under  no  legal  disqualifica- 
tion at  the  period  of  application.  (S.  J.  1712,  1739,  1798, 
2515,  2518,  2530.) 

1254.  The  S.  G.  L.has  prescribed  that  there  be  pre- 
pared the  form  of  a  certificate  for  dues,  etc.,  to  be  recog- 
nized as  evidence  of  good  standing,  when  the  holder  de- 
sires to  make  visitation  in  another  jurisdiction,  in  lieu  of 
a  visiting  card,  said  form  of  a  certificate  to  be  universal 
throughout  all  the  jurisdictions  on  this  continent,  and  to 
be  used  as  the  only  and  legal  receipt  for  dues,  assess- 
ments, fees,  etc.,  by  all  the  Lodges,  Encampments  and 
Rebekah  Lodges.     The  A.  T.  P.  W.,  or  substitute  there- 


R.  L.  X,  §3.  244 

for,  to  be  communicated  to  every  member  when  paying 
his  clues,  and  the  privilege  to  visit  in  another  jurisdiction 
to  depend  upon  this  certificate  which  shall  bear  his  sig- 
nature on  the  margin,  the  genuineness  of  which  he  must 
prove  before  the  Examining  Committee,  and  the  proper 
password. 

The  holder  of  such  a  certificate  is  considered  to  hold 
a  proper  card  for  visiting  purposes.  The  use  of  such 
certificate  shall  not  be  so  construed  as  to  abolish  or  re- 
strict the  present  use  or  purposes  of  the  visiting  card, 
or  to  abrogate  any  of  the  rights  and  privileges  to  which 
its  holder  is  thereby  entitled  under  the  laws  of  the  Order; 
on  the  contrary,  any  brother  who,  by  the  general  laws  of 
the  Order,  is  qualified  to  apply  for  the  same  shall  be  en- 
titled to  receive  a  visiting  card  as  heretofore,  and  the 
holding  of  such  visiting  card  shall  be  prima  facie  evidence 
of  good  standing  in  the  Order.  Lodges  are  not  required 
to  pay  sick  or  funeral  benefits,  or  render  other  pecuniary 
aids  to  a  member  of  another  jurisdiction  upon  a  presenta- 
tion of  such  certificate,  unless  so  directed  by  the  Lodge 
of  which  the  brother  is  a  member.  (S.  J.  14953,  14954, 
15067.) 

1255.  Any  brother  in  good  standing  may  draw  a 
visiting  card  to  be  valid  for  any  reasonable  length  of 
time,  expressed  on  its  face,  and  to  be  determined  by  the 
Lodge  from  which  it  is  drawn,  to  enable  him  to  visit 
Lodges  while  traveling  or  sojourning  in  states  or  other 
places  without  the  limits  of  the  jurisdiction  in  which  his 
own  Lodge  may  be  located.  Besides  enabling  brothers 
to  visit,  this  card  also  entitles  them  to  all  the  courtesies 
of  the  brotherhood,  as  well  as  the  benevolent  usages  of 
the  Order,  or  if  they  should  meet  with  any  accident  or 
misfortune;  and  brethren  holding  such  cards  continue  to 
be  members  of  the  Order  and  are  amenable  to  all  the 
penal  laws  of  their  Lodges  in  the  same  manner  as  other 
members.     (S.  J.  677,  678,  679.) 

1256.  In  granting  visiting  cards  no  ballot  is  neces- 
sary, but  the  application  must  be  passed  upon  by  the 
Lodge.  This  may  be  done  by  a  formal  motion,  made  and 
seconded,  and  put  by  the  Chair,  or  it  may  be  done  by  the 
presiding  officer  stating  "The  card  will  be  granted  if  there 
be  no  objections."     The  latter  is   by  general   consent   of 


245  R.  L.  X,  §3. 

the  Lodge,  and  in  such  case  is  granted  by  the  action  of 
the  Lodge  as  much  as  in  the  former.  Very  much  of  the 
legislation  of  all  bodies  is  done  by  general  consent.  (S.  J. 
6558,  6591.)  The  Noble  Grand  and  Secretary  of  a  Lodge, 
during  the  recess  of  the  Lodge,  may  issue  visiting  cards 
to  members  in  good  standing,  when  application  is  made 
to  them  in  writing.     (S.  J.  11397.) 

1257.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Recording  Secretary,  when 
he  issues  a  visiting  card,  to  endorse  thereon  the  char- 
acter of  attentive  benefits  allowed  by  the  By-Laws  of 
such  Lodge,  and  if  such  By-Laws  allow  the  hiring  of 
nurses  during  sickness,  such  fact  shall  also  be  stated,  to- 
gether with  the  compensation  allowed  per  diem  for  such 
nurses,  which  endorsement  shall  be  signed  by  such  Secre- 
tary, with  the  seal  of  the  Lodge  attached.  (S.  J.  9405, 
9460.) 

1258.  Having  granted,  issued  and  delivered  a  visiting 
card  to  a  brother,  the  Lodge  cannot  recall  the  card,  or 
nullify  it  unless  the  brother  obtained  it  through  fraud 
or  deception,  or  for  offense  committed  previous  to  grant- 
ing the  card,  of  which  he  must  be  convicted  upon  a  charge 
and  by  trial.     (J.  IH,  p.  160,  193,  200.) 

1259.  It  is  illegal  for  any  Lodge  to  extend  the  time 
for  which  visiting  cards  are  granted  by  endorsement  on 
the  back  thereof.  But  in  all  cases  of  removal  or  exten- 
sion, a  new  card  must  be  issued.     (S.  J.  7470.) 

1260.  The  right  to  grant  a  visiting  card  to  a  brother 
who  is  absent  and  just  elected  to  membership  by  deposit 
of  card,  depends  upon  local  law.  (S.  J.  10251,  10487, 
10511.) 

In  this  jurisdiction  membership  is  not  complete  until  the  ap- 
plicant has  signed  the  Constitution.  Hence,  until  after  this  formality 
has  been  complied  with,  a  visiting  card  cannot  be  granted. —  (Editor.) 

1261.  A  Lodge  is  bound  to  grant  a  visiting  card  to 
an  insane  brother  upon  proper  application,  provided  he  be 
in  good  standing  and  not  under  charges.  A  brother  insane 
cannot  visit  a  Lodge,  and  therefore  does  not  need  the  pass 
word,  but  he  requires  the  good  offices  of  the  Order  as  a 
sick  brother,  and  these  can  only  be  had  by  a  card  cer- 
tifying him  to  a  Lodge  where  he  may  temporarily  reside. 
An  endorsement  upon  the  card  of  the  condition  of  the 
brother  will  be  sufficient.     (S.  J.  9853,~  10105,  10176.) 


R.  L.  X,  §3. 246 

1263.  It  shall  not  be  lawful  for  any  Subordinate 
Lodge  to  grant  to  any  member  a  visiting  or  traveling 
card,  who  had  previously  applied  for,  and  obtained,  such 
a  card,  until  the  former  card  shall  have  been  returned 
to  the  Secretary  of  the  Lodge,  or  until  such  brother 
shall  produce  satisfactory  proof  of  its  loss  or  destruction. 
(S.  J.  9089,  9106.) 

1264.  The  S.  G.  L.  has  provided,  by  appropriate 
legislation,  that  the  possession  of  a  visiting  card,  the  date 
of  which  extends  to  a  date  later  than  when  the  same  is 
presented,  will  authorize  the  Noble  Grand  of  a  Lodge 
to  communicate,  not  only  the  A.  P.  W.,  but,  if  presented 
within  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Lodge  which  issued  it,  will 
authorize  the  communication  of  the  semi-annul  (or  term) 
password  as  well.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  344,  374.) 

1266.  No  jurisdiction  can  question  the  valid  mem- 
bership of  one  residing  in  another  jurisdiction,  who  holds 
a  legal  visiting  card,  or  an  ofificial  certificate  in  date,  and 
can  prove  himself  to  be  a  member  "according  to  the  es- 
tablished work  of  the  Order."  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  536,  979, 
1002.) 

1267.  The  color  of  the  printing  on  the  back  of  the 
ofificial  certificate  shall  be  varied  so  as  to  show  at  a  glance 
the  branch  of  the  Order  for  which  the  certificate  is 
adapted,  viz:  Red  for  the  Subordinate  Lodge;  purple  for 
the  Encampment;  green  for  the  Rebekah  Lodge.  (S.  J. 
XX,  p.  887,  960.)  The  official  certificate  itself  is  an  order 
for  the  A.  P.  W.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  21,  365,  394;  See  §  1264 
supra.) 

1268.  Only  those  members  who  pay  dues  in  advance 
are  entitled  to  the  A.  P.  W.  upon  obtaining  ofificial  re- 
ceipts. And  the  authority  for  communicating  the  same 
to  the  holder  of  a  certificate  is  limited  to  such  members. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  17,  365,  394;  S.  J.  16136,  16158;  S.  J.  XX, 
p.  35.  360,  371,  372.) 

1269.  A  Noble  Grand  should  give  to  a  member  with 
a  card  or  ofificial  certificate  the  A.  P.  W.  current  at  the 
time  of  presentation,  provided  the  card  covers  a  period 
which  extends  to  a  later  date.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  28,  404,  416.) 

1270.  The  presentation  of  an  ofificial  certificate  does 
not  authorize  communication  of  the  term  password  by  a 


247  R.  L.  X,  §3. 

Lodge   other    than   one   of   the   jurisdiction    to    which    the 
holder  belongs.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  16,  365,  394.) 

1271.  An  official  certificate  may  be  used  in  lieu  of  a 
visiting  card.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  18,  365,  394.) 

1272.  In  order  to  visit  on  an  official  receipt,  a  brother 
must  pay  his  dues  in  advance,  the  same  as  on  a  visiting 
card.  The  holder  thereof  may  not  visit  thereon  after  the 
date  to  which  the  same  shows  his  dues  to  be  paid.  (S.  J. 
15165,  15534,  15584;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  28,  361,  371,  372.) 

1273.  The  official  receipt  does  not  of  itself  permit 
visitation.  The  Lodge  should  examine  the  brother  to 
prove  his  identity,  and  should  the  visiting  brother  refuse 
such  examination,  the  Lodge  is  under  no  obligation  to 
admit  him.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24,  365,  394.) 

1274.  It  is  not  necessary  for  a  brother  desiring  to 
visit  within  his  own  jurisdiction  on  an  official  certificate 
to  have  the  semi-annual  password.  The  A.  P.  W.  is  the 
proper  password  for  him  to  give.  If  he  has  the  semi- 
annual password,  he  can  visit  without  the  certificate.  (S. 
J.  15744,  16030,  16054.) 

1275.  An  official  certificate  may  be  deposited  in  an- 
other Lodge  for  admission,  the  same  as  a  visiting  card, 
and  is  a  sufficient  guarantee  of  good  standing  to  ac- 
company a  petition  for  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
in  another  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  15165,  15534,  15584;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  29,  365,  394.) 

1276.  The  granting  of  a  visiting  card  by  a  Lodge  is 
a  matter  of  course  to  a  brother  in  good  standing,  and 
never  involves  the  question  of  leave  of  absence.  (S.  J. 
2758,  2782.) 

1277.  When  an  officer,  exempt,  under  the  Constitu- 
tion and  By-Laws,  from  paying  dues,  applied  for  and 
receives  a  visiting  card,  he  must  pay  dues  in  advance  the 
same  as  any  other  member.  If  he  continues  to  serve  in 
such  office  to  the  end  of  his  term,  or  until  the  expiration 
of  his  card,  the  proper  amount  must  be  refunded  to  him. 
(J.  in,  p.  159,  193,  200.) 

DISMISSAL  CERTIFICATES: 

1278.  In  all  cases  where  the  law  makes  it  obligatory 
upon  Lodges  to  grant  dismissal  certificates  to  brothers 
suspended  or  dropped  for  non-payment  of  dues,  it  shall  tie 


R.  L.  X,  §3. 248 

the  duty  of  the  Noble  Grand  and  Recording  Secretary 
to  issue  dismissal  certificates,  upon  proper  application  in 
open  Lodge,  and  payment  of  the  fee,  without  vote  of  the 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  4932.) 

1279.  No  Lodge  has  a  right  to  refuse  a  dismissal 
certificate  to  a  member  suspended  for  non-payment  of 
dues  who  makes  proper  application  for  the  same,  unless 
charges  are  preferred  against  him.  (S.  J.  4993,  5194,  5245, 
9856,  10105,  10176.) 

1280.  The  dismissal  certificate  is  a  document  speci- 
fied in  particular  form  by  the  S.  G.  L.  for  general  use, 
as  expressed  by  its  legislation,  and  it  cannot  be  altered 
in  any  respect,  except  through  the  authority  derived  from 
the  Sovereign  Body  itself.     (S.  J.  11899,  12217,  12281.) 

1281.  A  dismissal  certificate,  when  issued,  shall  show 
upon  its  face  the  highest  degree  of  rank  obtained  by  the 
brother  to  whom  the  same  is  issued.     (S.  J.  9722,  9797.) 

1282.  A  member  suspended  or  dropped  for  non-pay- 
ment of  dues,  wishing  to  regain  membership  in  another 
jurisdiction  than  that  in  which  he  was  dropped  or  sus- 
pended, shall  be  entitled  to  receive,  and  the  Lodge  shall, 
upon  proper  application,  grant  a  dismissal  certificate,  upon 
the  receipt  of  one  dollar.     (S.  J.  8487.) 

1283.  In  all  cases  where  a  Lodge  or  Encampment 
has  refused  to  reinstate  a  member  suspended  or  dropped 
for  non-payment  of  dues,  he  shall  be  entitled  to  receive, 
and  the  Lodge  shall,  upon  proper  application,  grant  a 
dismissal  certificate,  upon  the  receipt  of  one  dollar.  (S. 
J.  8487.) 

1284.  A  member  suspended  or  dropped  for  non-pay- 
ment of  dues,  after  five  years'  suspension,  wishing  to  join 
a  Lodge  in  the  same  jurisdiction,  shall  be  entitled  to 
receive,  and  the  Lodge  shall  grant,  upon  proper  applica- 
tion, a  dismissal  certificate,  upon  the  receipt  of  one  dollar. 
(S.  J.  8487.) 

1285.  A  Lodge,  upon  proper  application  and  the  re- 
ceipt of  one  dollar,  may,  at  its  discretion,  by  the  majority 
vote  of  the  members  present,  grant  a  dismissal  certificate 
to  a  member  suspended  for  non-payment  of  dues,  to 
enable  such  suspended  member  to  join  a  Lodge  in  the 
same  jurisdiction  before  five  years  have  expired.  (S.  J. 
8487.) 


249 R.  L.  X,  §4. 

1286.  One  dollar  is  the  fee  for,  or  cost  of,  a  dis- 
missal certificate,  and  no  Lodge  is  authorized  to  charge 
any  greater  amount  for  the  same.  (S.  J.  11481,  11728, 
11786.) 

1287.  Dismissal  certificates  can  only  be  issued  to 
members  who  have  been  dropped  or  suspended  for  non- 
payment of  dues.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  513,  827,  873.) 

1288.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  grant  a  duplicate  dis- 
missal certificate  to  a  member  of  a  defunct  Lodge  of  the 
saYne  jurisdiction  who  has  lost  or  mislaid  the  original. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  48,  361,  371,  372.)  Grand  Bodies  can  issue 
a  dismissal  certificate  to  a  member  of  a  defunct  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  514,  827,  873.)  A  Grand  Lodge  may  issue 
a  dismissal  certificate  to  a  former  member  of  a  defunct 
Subordinate  who  was  dropped,  or  suspended,  for  non- 
payment of  dues  before  the  Subordinate  Body  surrendered 
its  charter.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  513,  827,  873.) 

1289.  TRANSFER  CERTIFICATE.— Section 
4. — A  member  of  the  Order  in  possession  of  an  Offi- 
cial Certificate  or  a  Visiting  Card,  changing  his  or 
her  residence  from  the  territorial  jurisdiction  of  his 
or  her  Lodge  to  the  territorial  jurisdiction  of  another 
Lodge,  and  desiring  to  unite  with  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
at  his  or  her  new  place  of  residence,  upon  making 
application  for  membership  accompanied  by  his  or 
her  Official  Certificate  or  Visiting  Card  showing 
his  or  her  dues  paid  in  advance,  and  being  elected 
as  provided  by  local  law,  and  official  notice  being 
sent  to  his  or  her  Lodge,  said  Lodge  shall,  unless 
charges  are  pending  against  him  or  her,  without 
ballot  and  without  fee,  issue  a  Transfer  Certificate 
and  send  same,  at  once,  to  the  Secretary  sending 
for  the  same ;  and,  upon  the  receipt  of  the  Transfer 
Certificate,  the  member  shall  be  entitled  to  sign  the 
Constitution  and  become  a  mem'ber  of  his  or  her 
new  Lodge  without  the  payment  of  any  admission 
fee.      The   issuing   of   a   Transfer   Certificate   shall 


R.  L.  XI,  §1. 250 

sever  membership  in  the  Lodge  issuing  it.     (J.  1907, 
p.  424,  426.) 

ARTICLE  XL— FEES,  DUES,  BENEFITS, 
FUNDS. 

1290.  PAYMENT  OF  FEE,  WHEN.  CRED- 
ITS, HOW  MADE.— Section  1.— No  person  shall 
be  admitted  to  membership  or  reinstated  in  this 
Lodge,  or  receive  a  card,  until  payment  is  made  of 
the  amount  required  therefor  by  this  Constitution 
or  the  By-Laws.  When  dues  and  assessments  or 
fines  stand  charged  upon  account,  the  payments 
made  shall  apply  to  these  in  the  order  of  their  ac- 
cruing.    (J.  1895,  p.  215.) 

1291.  Remission  of  initiation  fees  is  a  subject  for 
local  legislation,  and  unless  permitted  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction,  a  Lodge  should  not  recognize 
any  bargain  made  by  members  with  a  candidate  for  re- 
turn to  him  of  part  of  his  initiation  fee.  It  is  highly 
inexpedient  for  Lodges  to  recognize  the  validity  of  such 
bargains,  even  if  the  local  law  be  silent  on  the  subject. 
(S.  J.  6752,  6977,  7051;  See  §  1292  infra.) 

1292.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois  requires  that 
every  person  joining  a  Lodge  must  pay  the  prescribed 
admission  fee;  ministers  of  the  Gospel  and  charter  mem- 
bers of  a  Lodge  are  not  excepted.  Nor  may  this  law  be 
evaded  by  giving  back  the  fee  or  any  part  of  it.  The  same 
rule  applies  to  degree  fees.  Charter  members  pay  the 
regular  fee  for  deposit  of  cards,  and  are  credited  for  what 
they  advance  for  the  charter.  (J.  I.  p.  147,  152;  J.  Ill, 
p.  78,  107,  161,  193,  200.) 

1293.  The  fee  of  an  applicant  shall  be  paid  to  the 
Financial  Secretary,  or,  if  there  be  no  Financial  Secretary, 
to  the  Secretary,  who  shall  pay  it,  with'  the  receipts  of 
the  meeting,  to  the  Treasurer.  If  an  applicant  is  rejected, 
or  his  petition  withdrawn,  the  fee  shall  be  drawn  from 
the  Treasurer  on  an  order  in  favor  of  the  applicant.  If 
the  fee  to  be  returned  is  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  pro- 
poser, he  is  made  the  agent  of  the  Lodge.  If  he  fails  to 
pay   it   over,   the  Lodge   is   still   responsible   for   it.     This 


251  R.  L.  XI,  §2. 

question   is   a   matter   for   local   legislation.      (S.   J.    11100, 
11368,  11396;  T-1378.) 

1294.  If  a  candidate  has  paid  the  full  fee  required 
by  the  Lodge,  or  by  an  illegal  By-Law,  and  has  been 
admitted  to  membership,  he  is  a  legal  member;  and  he 
cannot  be  required  to  pay  an  additional  sum,  though  he 
is  in  honor  bound  to  pay  the  regular  fee,  unless  misrep- 
resentation was  used  to  induce  him  to  become  a  member. 
(J.  in,  p.  96;  J.  VI,  p.  497,  551,  574.) 

1295.  The  finances  of  a  Lodge  are  under  the  control 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  yet  such  control  is  limited  by  the 
supreme  law.     (S.   J.   6560,   6591.) 

1296.  Any  person  residing  in  one  jurisdiction  and 
joining  a  Lodge  in  another  jurisdiction,  whose  fees  for 
admission  to  membership,  either  by  initiation  or  deposit 
of  card,  are  less  than  the  fees  charged  in  his  own  juris- 
diction, shall  pay  to  the  Lodge  he  so  joins  the  amount  of 
the  minimum  fees  charged  in  his  own  jurisdiction,  and 
the  Lodge  which  he  joins  shall  pay  over  the  excess  thus 
collected  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction  in  which 
he  resides.  (S.  J.  14090,  14146,)  When  permission  is 
given  for  a  non-resident  to  join  a  Lodge  out  of  his  juris- 
diction, he  must  pay  the  fee  required  by  the  Lodge  near- 
est his  residence,  if  it  be  greater  than  that  of  the  Lodge 
lie  joins,  and  such  Lodge  shall  pay  the  difference  to  the 
Grand  Jurisdiction  where  he  resides.  (S.  J.  14251,  14487, 
14570.) 

1297.  Where  a  Lodge  receives  notes  instead  of  cash 
for  fees,  the  Grand  Master  may  order  all  members  so 
received  to  pay  up,  under  penalty  of  being  dropped  from 
membership  on  faikire  so  to  do.  And  where  the  Lodge 
fails  or  refuses  to  carry  out  the  orders  of  the  Grand 
Master,  its  charter  may  be  arrested  for  contempt.  (J. 
IX,  p.  914.) 

1298.  ADMISSION  FEE.— Section  2.— No  per- 
son shall  be  admitted  to  membership  in  this  Lodge 
for  a  less  sum  than  is  herein  provided,  viz. :  By- 
initiation,  one  dollar;  by  deposit  of  an  expired  with- 
drawal card  a  dismissal  certificate,  or  a  certificate 
of  resignation,  one  dollar ;  no  fee  whatever  shall  be 


R.  L.  XI,  §3.  252 

charged  for  the  deposit  of  an  unexpired  withdrawal 
card.     (J.  1907,  p.  390,  424,  425.) 

1299.  REINSTATEMENT  FEE.  —  Section  3. 
— The  fee  for  reinstatement  shall  be  one  year's 
dues  in  all  cases.     (J.  1907,  p.  390,  424,  425.) 

1300.  The  fee  of  one  year's  dues  paid  for  reinstate- 
ment, is  a  reinstatement  fee,  and  is  not  applied  on  dues, 
which  begin  to  accrue  from  the  time  the  reinstating  vote 
was  taken.     (J.  1901,  p.  13,  270,  294.) 

1301.  DUES,  REGULAR.— Sec.  4.— The  regu- 
lar contributions  to  the  Lodge  fund  shall  not  be  at 
a  less  rate  than  two  cents  a  week,  to  be  determined 
by  the  By-Laws.     (J.  1895,  p.  215.) 

1302.  A  Lodge  may  not  provide  for  the  payment  of 
a  fixed  sum  in  full  for  all  dues  during  life;  in  other  words, 
it  cannot  sell  a  life  membership,  relieving  the  members 
from  all  future  payment  of  dues,  and  this  privilege  should 
not  be  granted  by  local  legislation.  (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  429, 
675,  705.) 

1303.  The  legislation  of  the  S.  G.  L.  providing  for 
the  retention  of  members  over  sixtj^  years  of  age  as  non- 
contributing  members,  does  not  apply  to  the  Rebekah 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  442,  675,  709.) 

1304.  It  is  illegal  for  a  Rebekah  Lodge  to  charge 
less  dues  than  two  cents  per  week  or  $1.04  per  year.  (J. 
1901,  p.  15,  270,  294.) 

1305.  Dues  do  not  begin  to  accrue  against  one  elected 
to  become  a  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  by  card  or  cer- 
tificate until  the  Constitution  is  signed,  as  that  is  the  time 
membership  begins.  This  is  true  even  if  several  months 
elapse  between  the  election  and  the  time  the  Constitution 
is  signed.     (J.  1901,  p.  16,  270,  294.) 

1306.  The  word  "dues"  has  three  meanings  in  our 
laws:  (1)  The  weekly  contributions  under  Section  4,  of 
Article  XI,  of  the  Subordinate  Constitution,  in  distinction 
from  what  is  paid  for  initiation  and  degrees,  which 
amounts  are  fees.  (2)  The  regular  weekly  contributions 
and  anything  else  regularly  accruing  at  stated  intervals; 
the    "further    contributions"    mentioned    in    Section    5,    of 


253  R.  L.  XI,  §4. 

Article  XI,  of  the  Rebekah  Constitution.  In  tliis  sense 
it  is  used  when  saying  "the  Secretary  shall  be  exempt 
from  all  dues."  (3)  All  that  is  due  from  a  member  on 
the  books  of  the  Lodge,  including  the  weekly  contribu- 
tions, regular  contributions,  special  assessments  and  fines. 
When  it  is  said  that  one  taking  a  withdrawal  card  must 
pay  all  dues,  the  word  is  used  in  the  third  sense.  (T-1429; 
W-434.) 

1307.  It  is  not  lawful  by  local  law  to  provide  that 
Rebekah  Lodges  may  receive  a  fixed  sum  as  dues  and  as 
a  consideration  therefor  relieve  the  member  so  paying, 
from  further  obligation  to  be  charged  up  with  dues  during 
his  membership.     (S.  J.  5519,  5547.) 

1308.  A  Lodge  cannot  refuse  to  receive,  in  full  or  in 
part,  the  dues  of  a  member  prior  to  his  suspension,  and 
no  member  can  be  suspended  or  dropped  from  member- 
ship in  the  Order  for  non-payment  of  dues,  unless  at  the 
time  of  his  suspension  he  shall  be  indebted  to  the  Lodge 
for  one  year's  dues,  and  he  has  been  notified  of  the  action 
that  would  be  taken.     (T-1371;  S.  J.  7505.) 

1309.  It  is  competent  for  a  Grand  Body  to  permit 
its  Subordinates  to  make  By-Laws  requiring  payment  of 
dues  in  advance,  provided  such  requirements  shall  not 
work  a  forfeiture  of  any  rights  now  guaranteed  to  mem- 
bers by  the  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  7370,  7471.) 

1310.  When  a  By-Law  is  amended,  increasing  the 
amount  to  be  paid  for  dues,  it  affects  every  member  of 
the  Lodge.  A  brother  can  claim  no  exemption  by  reason 
of  having  received  a  visiting  card.  A  receipt  issued  by 
the  Secretary  to  a  member  for  dues  paid  in  advance  for  a 
certain  period  does  not  constitute  a  contract  that  the  rate 
of  dues  for  such  a  member  shall  remain  unchanged  during 
the  time  for  which  he  paid  in  advance.  (S.  J.  7373,  7472, 
7020,  7077.) 

1311.  In  determining  a  member's  standing  in  the 
Order,  reference  must  be  had  to  the  amount  of  dues  fixed 
by  the  Lodge,  reckoned  by  weekly  periods.  A  member 
does  not  owe  his  dues  until  the  expiration  of  the  week. 
A  Lodge  cannot  require  them  to  be  paid  in  advance,  ex- 
cept when  a  visiting  card  is  taken;  and  they  can  be 
charged  only  for  the  actual  time  of  membership.  They 
may  be   entered  weekly  or  at  longer  intervals,   and  paid 


R.   L.   XI,  §4.  254 

at  any  time  a  member  chooses;  but  the  Lodge  may  re- 
quire them  paid  at  a  definite  time  after  due.  (J.  1856, 
p.  35,  186,  195;  J.  VI,  p.  41,  114,  116.) 

1312.  The  holder  of  a  visiting  card  is  liable  for  all 
regular  or  special  taxes  levied  by  the  Lodge  while  the 
card  is  current,  whether  he  be  present  or  absent  from  the 
Lodge.     (J.   1855,  p.   127.) 

1313.  No  member  is  in  good  standing  while  his  note 
is  held  for  dues;  the  indebtedness  by  note  is  a  new  form, 
not  a  discharge  of  the  debt.     (S.  J.  1775,  1806.) 

1314.  Payment  of  dues  to  the  Treasurer  is  not  a 
payment  to  the  Lodge,  since  the  laws  require  all  pay- 
ments to  be  made  to  the  Secretary.  It  is  optional  with  a 
Lodge  whether  it  will  recognize  a  payment  made  to  other 
officers.     (S.  J.  3031,  3084,  3113.) 

1315.  If  a  brother  pays  to  the  Lodge  for  dues  or  fees 
all  that  is  required  of  him  by  the  Secretary,  which  amount 
is  nevertheless  too  small,  by  error  of  the  officer,  the 
brother's  claims  against  the  Lodge  are  not  prejudiced 
thereby.     (S.  J.  1935,  1962,  2484,  2504.) 

1316.  Every  Lodge  holds  its  members,  who  are  un- 
der suspension  for  cause,  responsible  for  dues  and  un- 
worthy conduct  during  such  disability.  Upon  reinstate- 
ment, the  full  amount  accruing  before,  during  and  after 
suspension  should  be  paid.     (S.  J.  1504,  1513,  1884.  1948.") 

1317.  If  a  member  is  expelled  and  afterwards  rein- 
stated, no  dues  are  to  be  charged  for  the  interval.  If, 
however,  an  expulsion  be  found  illegal,  on  appeal  to  the 
Grand  Lodge,  dues  accrue  for  the  time  in  which  it  was 
erroneously  held  valid.  (J.  1853,  p.  70;  J.  IV,  p.  200,  201. 
240,  246;  See  §  1334  infra.) 

1318.  A  Lodge  cannot  remit  or  donate  dues,  nor  do- 
nate or  loan  money  to  a  member  for  dues  to  keep  him 
good  on  the  books;  c?t<es  must  he  paid.  No  arrearages  can 
be  remitted.  (J.  1855,  p.  25.  126;  J.  Ill,  p.  99,  421,  443; 
J.  V,  p.  315,  358,  362;  See  §  1325  infra.) 

1319.  If  a  Lodge  sets  apart  a  certain  share  of  its 
dues  for  a  special  fund,  then  there  should  be  set  off  that 
share  of  what  is  actually  collected  and  paid  in.  (J.  IV, 
p.  409.) 


255  R.  L.  XI,  §4. 

1320.  A  brother  may  not  offset  his  dues  with  an  un- 
adjusted claim,  even  if  just.  The  Lodge,  and  not  the 
brother,  must  make  the  offset.  (J.  Ill,  p.  160,  200;  S.  J. 
10250,  10487,  10511.) 

1321.  Although  a  Lodge  may  cease  to  act  as  such, 
it  is  still  in  existence  until  its  charter  is  surrendered  or 
annulled,  and  the  dues  of  its  members  continue  to  ac- 
cumulate.    (S.  J.  XX,  p.  861,  913,  914.) 

1322.  Official  certificates  only  can  be  issued  for  the 
payment  of  dues  and  assessments,  and  it  is  unlawful  to 
issue  any  other  receipt,  except  in  the  case  of  visiting  or 
withdrawal  cards.  (S.  J.  15745,  16030,  16054;  S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  870,  947,  962.)  If  a  member  is  in  arrears  for  dues  and 
pays  part  or  all  of  such  arrearages,  and  nothing  in  ad- 
vance, he  may  demand  as  a  receipt  the  official  certificate, 
but  is  not  entitled  to  the  A.  P.  W.  (S.  J.  15175,  15534, 
15584.)  Such  a  receipt  need  not  be  given  by  a  Lodge 
unless  a  request  is  made  therefor.  (S.  J.  15745,  16030, 
16054.)  Should  the  brother  paying  his  dues  and  assess- 
ments not  desire  a  receipt,  the  Secretary  is  not  compelled 
to  issue  one.     (S.  J.  15166,  15534,  15584.) 

1323.  Hereafter  an  official  certificate  shall  be  issued 
in  all  cases  where  members  pay  dues  and  assessments  to 
Subordinate  Bodies,  and  shall  request  a  receipt  therefor; 
and  it  shall  be  unlawful  for  any  Rebekah  Lodge, 
*****  to  permit  its  officers  to  issue,  and  it  shall  be 
unlawful  for  any  officer  of  any  Subordinate  Body  to 
issue  any  receipt,  statement  or  other  paper  evidencing 
the  payment  of  money  on  account  of  dues  or  assessments, 
except  an  official  certificate;  provided,  however  that  when 
a  member  applies  for,  pays  for,  and  receives  a  visiting 
card  or  withdrawal  card,  it  will  not  be  necessary  to  issue 
an  official  certificate,  evidencing  the  same  payment.  (S. 
J.  XIX,  p.  870,  947,  962.) 

1324.  Hereafter  in  the  printing  of  official  certificates 
for  Rebekah  Lodges  the  paragraph,  "payment  of  benefits 
or  pecuniary  aid  is  not  authorized  by  this  certificate," 
shall  be  omitted.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  672,  776,  783.) 

1325.  When  a  member  pays  his  dues  and  demands 
an  official  certificate  or  receipt,  the  Noble  Grand  has  no 
authority  to  withhold  his  signature  from  such  official  cer- 
tificate  until    the   brother   to   whom   the   receipt   is   issued 


R.  L.  XI,  §4.  256 

signs  tlie  same  on  the  margin  thereof.  If  the  signature 
of  the  member  on  the  margin  of  the  receipt  was  required 
before  the  Noble  Grand  signs  such  receipt,  then  members 
at  a  distance  would  be  seriously  inconvenienced  in  obtain- 
ing their  receipts  for  dues  sent  by  mail.  The  same  rule 
applies  to  the  visiting  card.  (S.  J.  XXII,  Report  16,  p. 
689,  710.) 

The  payment  of  dues  is  a  fundamental  principle  of 
the  Order,  which  cannot  be  dispensed  with  or  evaded  by 
any  Lodge,  Grand  or  Subordinate.  Dues  must  be  paid 
and  they  may  not  be  remitted.  The  payment  thereof  is 
a  condition  precedent  to  good  standing  and  benefits.  (S. 
J.  14248,  14526,  14570,  14688,  14948.  15019;  See  §  1318 
supra  and  §  1332  infra.) 

1326.  It  is  illegal  for  a  Lodge  to  receive  a  fixed  sum 
from  an  applicant  for  membership  in  lieu  of  dues  to  accrue 
during  his  membership.     (S.  J.  5519,  5547.) 

1327.  It  is  illegal  to  remit  the  dues  of  members 
serving  in  the  Army  during  the  time  of  a  war.  (S.  J. 
15948,  16012,  16050.) 

1328.  Dues  accrue  weekly,  and  only  for  convenience 
are  paid  at  stated  periods.  It  is  the  right  of  a  brother  to 
pay  his  dues  at  any  time,  and  the  words  "any  time"  are 
construed  to  mean  at  any  Lodge  meeting.  (S.  J.  1290, 
1318,  2312,  2346,  6620,  6692,  10711,  10951,  11005.)  Dues 
commence  at  the  time  of  the  initiation.     (S.  J.  8992,  9087.) 

1329.  A  Lodge  may  not  refuse  to  receive,  in  full  or 
in  part,  the  dues  of  a  member  prior  to  his  suspension, 
nor  impose  upon  him,  as  a  condition,  to  his  retention  of 
membership,  the  obligation  to  pay  the  whole  of  the 
amount  due.     (S.  J.  7505,  6575,  6641,  6666.) 

1330.  Upon  the  decease  or  withdrawal  of  a  brother, 
the  Lodge  is  in  duty  bound  to  refund  advanced  dues  pre- 
viously paid.     (S.  J.  12176,  12273.) 

1331.  Dues  may  be  increased  by  an  amendment  to 
the  By-Laws,  and  members  who  hold  official  receipts  or 
visiting  cards,  must  pay  dues  at  the  new  rate  from  the 
date  when  such   By-Law  takes  eflfect.     (S.  J.  7020,  7077.) 

1332.  Lodges  have  the  power  to  compromise  arrears 
of  dues,  and  to  remit  the  whole  or  any  part  thereof,  when 
application  is  made  for  reinstatement,  and  this  law  refers 


257 R.  L.  XI,  §5. 

to  all  Lodges,  whether  under  the  immediate  jurisdiction 
of  the  S.  G.  L.  or  of  Grand  Bodies.  (S.  J.  2495,  2520,  2665, 
2673,  2860,  2925,  2963.) 

1333.  Dues  continue  to  accrue  during  the  time  when 
a  member  is  suspended  as  a  punishment  for  an  offense. 
(S.  J.  1505,  1513.)  But  where  one  has  been  suspended  for 
cause  other  than  the  non-payment  of  dues,  the  dues  ac- 
cumulating during  the  time  of  such  suspension  may  be 
remitted  if  the  Lodge  sees  fit.     (S.  J.  5513,  5546.) 

1334.  Where  an  expelled  member  has  been  restored 
to  membership  his  dues  begin  to  accrue  from  the  time 
the  final  decision  is  officially  announced  to  his  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  14686,  14948,  15019;  See  §  1317  sulyra.) 

1335.  Dues  sent  to  the  Lodge  by  a  registered  letter 
are  sent  at  the  risk  of  the  sender,  and  if  they  fail  to  reach 
the  Lodge  before  the  time  fixed  in  the  notice  for  dropping, 
he  may  be  suspended  for  non-payment  of  dues.  (S.  J. 
11673,  11682.) 

1336.  A  member  suspended  as  a  punishment  is  liable 
for  dues,  and  should  he  ask  for  a  receipt,  the  official  cer- 
tificate should  be  given  him,  duly  endorsed  across  its  face 
— '"The    holder    is    under    suspension    for    cause    until    the 

day    of 19 " 

(J.  1901,  p.  9,  319;  S.  J.  XXL  p.  323,  370,  391.) 

1337.  DUES,  S  P  E  C  I  A  L.— Sec.  5.— This 
Lodge  may,  by  its  By-Laws,  require  such  further 
contributions,  for  a  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund, 
an  Educational  Fund,  or  for  any  other  fund  suit- 
able to  the  purpose  of  the  Order,  or  for  either  or 
all  of  them,  as  the  Lodge  shall  determine.  (J.  1895, 
p.  215.) 

1338.  The  following  By-Law  of  a  Lodge  is  illegal: 
Each  member  shall  pay  into  the  treasury  one  dollar  per 
year,  to  be  placed  in  a  special  fund  to  be  called  "Good  of 
the  Order  Fund,"  this  to  be  used  as  the  Lodge  may  direct. 
Each  member  shall  have  the  same  charged  to  him,  and  it 
shall  be  treated  as  dues  or  other  assessments,  one-quarter 
payable  quarterly.     (S.  J.  14688,  14948,  15019.) 

1339.  The  special  funds  of  a  Lodge  should  be  kept 
separate  and  intact.     When  a  deficiency  occurs  in  any  of 


R.  L.   XI,  §5.  258 

them  it  should  be  replenished  by  assessments  or  other- 
wise, but  not  by  drawing  or  borrowing  from  other  funds. 
(S.  J.  8986,  9085.) 

1340.  A  Lodge  may  not  assess  its  members  a  specific 
sum  for  necessary  expenses  in  fitting  up  a  hall  and  pro- 
curing necessary  fixtures.  It  is  authorized  to  adopt  cer- 
tain rates  of  regular  dues  necessary  for  providing  funds 
with  which  to  pay  its  legitimate  expenses.  It  may  not 
demand  more  from  its  members,  unless  authorized  by 
special  local  legislation.  (S.  J.  5825,  5860;  See  §  1341 
infra.) 

1341.  A  Lodge  may  not  levy  a  tax  for  the  furnishing 
of  a  Lodge  room,  when  there  is  sufficient  funds  in  its 
treasury,  but  if  there  is  not  enough  money  in  the  general 
funds  to  pay  the  bill,  the  Lodge  may  levy  an  assessment 
for  any  necessary  expense,  as  in  furnishing  the  Lodge 
room,  getting  needed  paraphernalia,  regalia,  etc.  Such 
assessment  may  be  enforced  like  other  dues.  (J.  IV,  p. 
2O0,  202,  240,  242.) 

1342.  A  Lodge  may  not  levy  a  special  assessment 
to  defray  the   expense  of  a  celebration.     (J.   Ill,  p.   100.) 

1343.  If  the  By-Laws  of  a  Lodge  provide  for  an  as- 
sessment upon  members  in  case  of  a  minimum  amount  in 
the  treasury  (that  is,  if  there  be  less  than  some  certain 
amount,)  the  minimum  is  to  be  estimated  in  cash,  not 
counting  money  at  interest  on  a  note,  nor  money  to  be 
paid  in  soon.  The  object  of  the  assessment  is  to  provide 
funds  for  immediate  use,  and  the  Noble  Grand  must  order 
the  making  of  the  assessment  without  waiting  for  collec- 
tions..    (J.  IV,  p.  199,  240,  436,  465;  J.  VII,  p.  96,  111.) 

1344.  It  is  not  obligatory  upon  a  Lodge  to  establish 
a  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund;  but  after  it  has  created 
such  a  fund  the  Lodge  cannot  draw  upon  it  to  meet  con- 
tingent expenses,  nor  merge  it  into  the  general  fund  in 
the  Lodge  treasury.  The  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund 
is  a  "Special  Trust  Fund,"  and  cannot  be  used  to  pay 
funeral  benefits,  though  the  brother  leaves  a  widow  and 
orphan  children.  It  is  for  their  direct  and  individual  sup- 
port. (J.  Ill,  p.  268,  421,  443;  159,  193.  200;  J.  VI,  p.  1021; 
J.  IV,  p.  224,  467;  S.  J.  10986,  10987.  11027,  10054;  14684. 
14948,  15019;  4875,  4897,  9976,  10071;  J.  1896.  p.  194,  277, 
320,  329,  332.) 


259  R.  L.  XI,  §5. 

1345.  Under  the  authority  of  a  resohition  adopted  by 
the  S.  G.  L.  in  1904  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  805,  843,  879)  the  Grand 
Lodge  authorizes  and  empowers  all  Subordinate  Lodges 
in  this  jurisdiction,  having  a  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund, 
originally  created  by  setting  aside  ten  per  cent  of  the 
annual  dues,  to  merge  the  same  with  the  general  funds  of 
the  Lodge.  Provided,  hoivever,  that  authority  to  merge 
said  funds  shall  not  apply  to  any  sums  which  come  into 
Lodge  treasuries  by  gift,  devise  or  bequest.  Said  gifts  or 
legacies  shall  be  kept  separate  from  the  general  funds, 
so  as  to  carry  out  the  intention  of  the  donors  or  devisors. 
(J.  1905,  p.  271,  312,  335.) 

1346.  In  jurisdictions  where  an  Odd  Fellows'  Home 
is  maintained,  the  Grand  Lodges  of  such  jurisdictions  are 
authorized  to  empower  Subordinate  Lodges  to  pay  from 
the  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  of  such  Subordinate 
Lodges  all  or  any  portion  of  the  per  capita  tax  levied 
by  such  Grand  Lodge  upon  its  Subordinates  for  the  sup- 
port of  such  Home,  and  to  empower  such  Subordinate 
Lodges  to  pay  from  such  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund 
such  sums  as  such  Grand  Lodge  may  determine  to  be 
necessary  and  proper  for  the  support  of  such  widows  and 
orphans,  as  may  be  placed  in  said  Home,  upon  request 
of  such  Subordinate  Lodge.  (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  289,  320,  327.) 
All  Lodges  in  this  jurisdiction  who  have  a  Widows'  and 
Orphans'  Fund,  may,  in  paying  their  capitation  tax,  draw 
from  such  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  an  amount  equal 
in  ratio  to  the  percentage  of  funds  that  is  apportioned 
by  the  Grand  Lodge  for  the  support  of  the  Orphans' 
Home.     (J.  IX,  p.  998,   1006.) 

1347.  A  Lodge  may  assess  its  members  to  purchase 
necessary  paraphernalia,  but  it  is  a  power  to  be  exercised 
reasonably  and  with  extreme  caution.     (J.  1901,  p.  9,  319.) 

CONTINGENT  FUND: 

1348.  Grand  Lodges  have  power  to  permit  Subordin- 
ate and  Rebekah  Lodges,  under  their  jurisdiction,  to  set 
apart  five  per  cent  of  their  receipts  for  dues  as  a  con- 
tingent fund,  to  be  expended  in  the  payment  of  necessary 
and  proper  obligations  which  every  Lodge  must  meet, 
and  for  which  purpose  a  Subordinate  Lodge,  under  exist- 
ing laws,  cannot  expend  from  its  funds.  (S.  J.  12232, 
12285,  12610,  12651.) 


R.   L.   XI,  §6.  260 

1349.  This  contingent  fund,  so  authorized  as  above, 
cannot  be  used  for  pleasure  excursions  or  the  mere  grati- 
fication of  individual  members,  but  it  may  be  appropriated 
for  flowers  or  music  at  the  funeral  of  a  member,  for  car- 
riages, railroad  fares,  etc.,  or  for  such  ways  as  are  cal- 
culated to  advance  interest  in  the  Order,  and  its  work. 
(^.  J.  XIX,  p.  39,  365,  394.) 

1350.  This  contingent  fund  cannot,  even  under  dis- 
pensation, be  used  for  paying  expenses  of  a  public  enter- 
tainment or  dance  followed  by  a  supper  to  arouse  interest 
in  the  Order.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  550,  988,  1004.) 

1351.  But  the  fund  may  be  used  to  pay  for  suppers 
where  none  but  members  of  the  Order  can  be  present, 
the  object  being  to  arouse  interest  in  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
XX,  p.  550,  988,  1004.) 

1352.  Under  dispensation,  the  fund  may  also  be  used 
for  public  celebration  of  the  anniversary  of  the  Order, 
with  an  entertainment  and  banquet  following.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  550,  988,  1004.) 

1353.  Rebekah  Lodges  may  not  create  a  con- 
tingent fund  by  setting  aside  five  per  cent  of  their  dues, 
unless  such  action  is  first  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 
The  Grand  Master  has  no  power  to  grant  such  permission. 
(S.  J.   12354,  12632,   12701.) 

1354.  GENERAL   AND    SPECIAL   FUNDS. 

— Sec.  6. — The  special  funds  of  this  Lodge  shall  be 
sacredly  devoted  (t)o  the  purposes  for  which  they 
may  be  raised,  and  the  general  funds  shall  be  con- 
sidered sacredly  pledged  to  the  relief  of  distressed 
members  of  the  Order,  the  furnishing  of  the  Lodge- 
room,  and  such  other  necessary  expenses  as  are  and 
may  be  recognized  and  authorized  by  the  laws  of 
the  Order.  But  this  Lodge  shall  not  pay  stipulated 
weekly  benefits.     (J.  1895,  p.  2LS.) 

1355.  Rebekah  Lodges  cannot  pay  sick  or  funeral 
benefits.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  780,  816,  834,  887,  914;  S.  J.  XX, 
p.  933,  984,  1003.) 

1356.  The   adoption   of   the    new   Code   does   not   au- 


261  R.  L.  XI,  §6. 

thorize  Rebekah   Lodges   to  pay  sick  or  funeral  benefits. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  33,  361,  371,  372.) 

1357.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  levy  assessments  for 
funeral  benefits.  It  may  raise  its  rate  of  annual  dues  and 
make  donations  when  needed.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  539,  988, 
1O04.) 

1358.  The  minimum  benefit  law  does  not  apply  to 
Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  12798,  13150,  13195;  S.  J.  XX,  p. 
857,  980,  1002.) 

1359.  The  S.  G.  L.  refused  to  amend  the  general  law 
so  as  to  allow  Rebekah  Lodges  to  pay  sick  benefits,  in 
1903,  again  in  1904,  and  again  in  1905.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  310, 
330,  356,  805,  869,  885,  886;  S.  J.  XXII,  p.  228,  271,  290.) 

1360.  The  funds  of  Rebekah  Lodges  shall  be  under 
the  immediate  control  of  and  subject  to  such  laws  and 
regulations  as  are  enacted  by  the  Grand  Body  to  which 
the  Rebekah  Lodge  may  be  subordinate.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  756,  777,  784.) 

1361.  Each  Rebekah  Lodge  has  power  to  pay  and  dis- 
burse its  funds  as  a  majority  of  the  members  present  shall 
by  vote  determine,  or  for  any  of  the  declared  purposes 
of  this  degree  as  set  forth  in  subdivisions  first,  second, 
and  third,  under  the  head  of  "Objects  and  Purposes,"  sub- 
ject to  such  laws  and  regulations  governing  the  disburse- 
ment of  funds  enacted  by  the  Grand  Body  to  which  the 
Rebekah  Lodge  may  be  subordinate.  Provided,  however, 
no  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  be  allowed  to  pay  sick  or  funeral 
benefits.  (Section  18,  Rebekah  Code,  as  amended;  S.  J. 
XXII,  p.  756,  777,  784.) 

1362.  It  is  improper  for  a  Lodge  to  entertain  a  mo- 
tion or  resolution  to  donate  from  its  general  funds  for  the 
purpose  of  assisting  in  the  erection  of  a  building  to  be  used 
by  an  organization  known  as  the  Young  Men's  Christian 
Association.  And  it  is  also  illegal  for  the  Noble  Grand 
to  entertain  a  motion  to  appoint  a  committee  of  Odd 
Fellows  to  solicit  voluntary  contributions  from  members 
of  the  Order  for  this  purpose.  (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  35,  219, 
239,  253;  J.  1907,  p.  26,  408,  409.) 

1363.  The  legislation  of  the  S.  G.  L.  declaring  funds 
of  a  Lodge  or  Encampment  to  be  trust  funds  applicable 
only    to    objects    for    which    they    were    collected,    which 


R.   L.   XI.  §6.  262 

legislation  is  found  on  pages  3664,  3697,  of  the  S.  G.  L. 
Journal,  1884  (White's  Digest,  1895,  Sec.  342)  has  been 
held  not  to  apply  to  Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  344, 
395,  414.) 

1364.  While  Rebekah  Lodges  may  not  pay  stated 
benefits,  the  funds  of  Rebekah  Lodges  are  nevertheless 
trust  funds,  to  be  disbursed  only  for  the  declared  pur- 
poses of  the  degree.  Therefore,  it  is  not  proper  or  lawful 
for  a  Rebekah  Lodge  to  vote  money  from  its  general 
fund  for  refreshments  when,  entertaining  other  Lodges, 
or  at  installation.  But  the  Lodge  may  by  By-Law  create 
a  contingent  or  entertainment  fund  by  setting  aside  there- 
to five  per  cent  of  its  receipts  for  fees  and  dues,  from 
which  fund  appropriations  may  be  made  for  such  pur- 
poses. (S.  J.  XXL  p.  537,  752,  820,  as  modified  by  S.  J. 
XXn,  p.  226,  297,  323.) 

1365.  Jurisdictions  can  authorize  their  Rebekah 
Lodges  to  set  aside  five  per  cent  of  their  receipts  for  dues 
for  a  contingent  fund.  (S.  J.  15171,  15534,  15584.)  A  Re- 
bekah Lodge  can  make  provisions  for  a  nurse  fund  for 
sisters  only.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  539,  988,  1004.)  And  it  may 
expend  moneys  from  its  general  fund  to  purchase  flowers 
for  its  sick  or  deceased  members.  (S.  J.  XXH,  p.  226, 
297,  323.) 

1366.  Section  36  of  the  Rebekah  Code  does  not  con- 
template any  watching  with  sick  brothers,  and  no  require- 
ments for  brothers  to  watch  with  the  sick  or  Rebekah 
Lodges  as  such.  An  assessment  cannot  be  levied  upon 
brothers  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  for  nursing  sick  or  dis- 
abled sisters,  but  it  may  be  levied  and  collected  from 
sisters  for  such  purposes.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  inay  pro- 
vide for  employing  nurses  to  watch  with  sick  sisters  by 
levying  an  assessment  (on  sisters,)  (if  authorized  by  the 
Grand  Lodge,)  or  it  may  detail  sisters  for  watch  service. 
Rebekah  Lodges  are  not  authorized  to  pay  sick  or  funeral 
benefits  or  expeneses  as  such,  but  in  proper  cases  this 
may  be  done  as  a  charitable  donation.  (S.  J.  XX,  De- 
cision 56,  p.  539,  988,  1004:  S.  J.  XXL  p.  534,  752,  820.) 

1367.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  may  hire  a  night  watch  for 
a  sick  sister  member,  if  it  so  provides  by  proper  By-Law. 
(J.  1901,  p.  14,  270,  294.) 


263  R.  L.  XI,  §6. 

1368.  It  is  competent  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  provide 
that  the  services  of  a  watcher  or  nurse  furnished  to  a 
disabled  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  shall  be  limited 
to  a  period  of  four  weeks  in  any  one  disability,  or  such 
less  time  as  said  services  may  be  needed.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
p.  42,  219,  243.) 

1369.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  cannot  donate  from  its  funds 
to  a  Christian  Endeavor  Society.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509,  827, 
873.) 

1370.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  authorize  Lodges  and  Re- 
bekah Lodges  to  appropriate  money  from  their  general 
fund  to  pay  for  purely  fraternal  papers  for  each  of  their 
members.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  271,  327,  353.) 

1371.  Lodges  have  the  right  to  regulate  their  finan 
cial  affairs  and  to  determine  the  propriety  of  appropri- 
ating funds  for  all  the  recognized  purposes  of  the  degree. 
But  they  may  not  divert  funds  from  their  treasury  for 
other  purposes,  such  as  pleasure  excursions,  picnics,  or 
the  like.  (S.  J.  3960,  4007,  5198,  5246.)  All  things  recom- 
mended to  Rebekah  Lodges  by  the  Sovereign  Grand 
Lodge  or  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  are  legitimate  ob- 
jects or  purposes  for  the  expenditure  of  Lodge  funds, 
subject,  however,  to  the  condition  of  the  By-Laws. 
(T-1393.)  Any  attempt  to  divert  the  funds  or  property 
of  a  Lodge  from  the  objects  and  purposes  for  which  they 
were  in  the  name  of  the  Order  collected,  is  wrong  and  in 
direct  violation  of  the  trust  which  has  been  voluntarily 
assumed.  Grand  bodies  are  directed  to  enact  laws  as 
will  effectually  put  a  stop  to  such  practices.  (S.  J.  3664, 
3697.)  Whenever  a  Lodge  attempts  to  distribute  its  funds 
or  property  amongst  its  members,  it  is  the  duty  of  the 
Grand  Master  to  suspend  it,  and  in  extreme  cases  to 
institute  suits  at  law  or  in  equity  to  protect  the  rights  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  (J.  Ill,  p.  517,  522,)  for  the  Grand 
Lodge  has  a  reversionary  interest  in  the  fimds  of  its  Sub- 
ordinates, and  may  not  only  prohibit  the  distribution  of 
such  funds  among  the  members,  but  has  the  undoubted 
right  to  limit  the  expenditures  of  Lodges  to  purposes 
within  the  Order,  (S.  J.  2772,  2812),  and  this  rule  extends 
so  far  as  to  prohibit  a  Lodge  which  desires  to  cease  work 
and  join  a  neighboring  Lodge,  from  transferring  its  funds 
and  property  to  said  neighboring  Lodge  without  the  con- 
sent of  the  Grand  Lodge.     (J.  Ill,  p.  157,   193,  200.) 


R.  L.  XI,  §6.  264 

1372.  Bills  are  appropriately  referred  to  the  Finance 
Committee  for  examination,  which  must  report,  etc., 
thereon,  as  soon  as  practicable;  but  the  Lodge  has  the 
right  to  pay  a  bill  without  the  action  of  the  Finance 
Committee,  especially  when  the  articles  have  been  or- 
dered by  the  Lodge;  but  it  cannot  accept  a  report  of  the 
minority  of  the  Committee,  except  as  a  substitute  to  the 
report  of  the  majority.     (J.  V.  p.   136,  385.) 

WHAT   ARE    LEGITIMATE   APPROPRIATIONS: 

1373.  Among  the  objects  for  which  the  funds  of  a 
Lodge  may  be  legally  expended,  the  following  have  been 
specified,  general  reference  being  had  to  T-1394  and  special 
references  as  indicated: 

A  Lodge  may  expend  its  funds: 

(1.)  In  the  purchase  of  real  estate  and  building  a 
hall.     (S.  J.  8166,  8182.) 

(2.)     In  purchase  of  land  or  lots  for  burial  purposes. 

(3.)  In  fitting  up  its  halls  with  necessary  furniture 
and  appropriate  adornments,  as  an  organ,  frames  for 
charter  and  pictures.     (S.  J.  8166,  8182.) 

(4.)  In  donation  for  any  purpose  within  the  object 
and  scope  of  the  Order.  (The  Washington  monument  is 
not  such  a  purpose.     (S.  J.  6350,  6619,  6692.) 

(5.)  In  hiring  watchers  for  its  own  or  transient  sick 
members.      (S.  J.  8166,  8182.) 

(6.)      For  expenses  of  a  public  or  private  installation. 

(7.)  For  an  orator  at  its  own  celebration,  whose  ad- 
dress must  be  upon  Odd  Fellowship. 

(8.)     For  buying  official  and  other  regalia. 

(9.)  For  the  formation  and  support  of  a  Lodge  li- 
brary.    (S.  J.  6985,  7054.) 

(10.)  For  a  band  of  music  at  a  funeral,  if  the  expense 
therefor  is  provided  by  a  special  assessment  for  funeral 
expenses,  if  the   By-Laws  so  permit. 

(11.)  For  the  celebration  of  the  anniversary  of  the 
Order  at  its  discretion,  but  the  sum  expended  must  be 
reasonable. 

(12.)     For  hall  rent  and  music  at  such  celebration. 

(13.)     In  the  relief  of  distressed  brothers  and  Lodges. 

(14.)  In  the  payment  of  officers  whose  duty  involves 
extra  labor,  as  the  Secretaries  and  the  Outside  Guardian, 
when  he  acts  as  Steward  or  Janitor. 


265 R.  L.  XI,  §6. 

(15.)  In  the  formation  of  new  Lodges  and  the  ex- 
tension of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  4423,  4921,  8422,  8480.) 

(16.)  In  donations  for  any  object  which  its  Grand 
Lodge  allows  to  be  presented. 

(17.)  Donations  to  Orphans'  and  Odd  Fellows' 
Homes.     (S.  J.  10986,  11027,  11102,  11374,  11399.) 

(18.)  Expenditures  from  the  special  five  per  cent 
contingent  fund  may  be  made  for  the  payment  of  bills 
incurred  for  music,  flowers,  carriages  and  railroad  fare 
at  the  funeral  of  a  deceased  brother.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  39, 
365,  394.)  And  since  the  legislation  of  1905  Subordinate 
and  Rebel<ah  Lodges  may  expend  moneys  from  the  gen- 
eral funds  to  purchase  flowers  for  their  sick  or  deceased 
members.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  226,  297,  323.) 

(19.)  Appropriations  may  also  be  made  to  procure, 
furnish  and  pay  for  out  of  the  general  fund  a  club-room 
equipped  with  light,  heat,  water,  janitor  service,  furniture, 
billiard  table,  pool  tables,  card  tables,  library,  reading 
room,  and  writing  rooin.  The  purposes  and  objects  for 
said  club  rooms  being  to  furnish  the  members  of  the 
Lodge  with  entertainment  and  amusement.  (S.  J.  XXII, 
Report  No.  8,  p.  675,  709.) 

1374.  Although  it  is  left  to  the  Lodges  in  their  dis- 
cretion to  appropriate  their  funds  for  the  purpose  of  cele- 
brating the  anniversary  of  the  Order,  yet  that  discretion 
must  be  exercised  in  a  reasonable  manner,  and  Grand 
Lodges  may  enact  suitable  regulations  to  prevent  their 
Subordinates  from  mailing  grossly  excessive  appropri- 
ations for  such  purposes.     (S.  J.  8171,  8185.) 

1375.  The  expenditure  of  Lodge  funds  for  music  to 
accompany  a  parade,  or  as  an  attractive  feature  in  con- 
nection with,  and  as  a  part  of  the  prescribed  ceremonies, 
is  authorized,  subject  to  such  limitations  as  may  be  made 
by  local  legislation,  as  a  part  of  the  legitimate  expenses 
incident  to  the  celebration  of  the  anniversary  of  American 
Odd  Fellowship  on  April  26th,  and  no  other  day;  but  the 
expenditure  of  Lodge  funds  for  music  in  connection  with 
a  dance  or  other  entertainment,  not  constituting  part  of 
the  anniversary  exercises,  is  neither  authorized  nor  per- 
mitted by  the  laws  of  Odd  Fellowship.  (S.  J.  14050,  14073.) 

1376.  A  Lodge  may  expend  a  reasonable  amount  of 
its    funds    to    defray   the    necessary   expenses    of   an    anni- 


R.   L.   XI,  §6.  266 

versary  celebration,  April  26th.  The  celebration  may  be 
conducted  in  such  a  manner  as  shall  tend  to  promulgate 
and  illustrate  principles  of  the  Order,  or  dignify  it  in  the 
eyes  of  the  community,  but  not  for  those  things  which 
contribute  merely  to  the  pleasure  or  gratification  of  the 
individual  members,  such  as  parties,  balls,  picnics,  excur- 
sions, banquets  and  the  like.      (S.  J.   10714,   10951,   11005.) 

1377.  A  Lodge  may  also  expend  a  reasonable  amount 
of  its  funds  to  defray  the  necessary  expenses  incident  to 
a  memorial  held  pursuant  to  the  proclamation  of  the 
Grand  Sire,  under  the  limitations  and  restrictions  con- 
tained in  the  foregoing  section.     (S.  J.  11102,  11374,  11399.) 

1378.  The  general  fund  may  also  be  appropriated  to 
purchase  veteran  and  honorable  veteran  jewels  for  mem- 
bers entitled  to  wear  them.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  786,  827,  873.) 

1379.  Whether  the  local  law  requires  a  Lodge  Treas- 
urer to  be  bonded  with  a  guarantee  or  indemnity  company 
as  surety,  the  Lodge  may  pay  the  premium  for  such  bond 
out  of  its  funds,  but  if  the  local  law  does  not  require  it, 
and  the  Treasurer  gives  such  surety  for  his  own  con- 
venience, then  he  should  pay  the  premium.  (S.  J.  15167, 
15557,  15616.) 

1380.  A  Lodge  is  justified  in  making  a  donation  as 
a  charity  to  a  brother  who,  at  the  time,  is  in  such  physical 
condition  that  he  is  obliged,  under  advice  of  his  physician, 
to  travel  abroad  as  the  only  means  of  regaining  his 
health,  although  the  brother  is  in  arrears  and  not  legally 
entitled  to  benefits.     (S.  J.  2772,  2812.) 

1381.  The  purchase  of  cemetery  sites  by  Subordinate 
Lodges  for  the  purpose  of  providing  a  burial  place  for 
deceased  members,  is  commended  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 
(J.  1897,  p.  344,  389.) 

WHAT      ARE      NOT      LEGITIMATE      APPROPRI- 
ATIONS: 

1382.  A  Lodge  may  not  pay  the  expenses  of  a  band 
of  music  from  its  general  funds,  but  such  expense  may 
be  included  in  a  special  assessment  for  funeral  expenses, 
if  the   By-Laws  so  provide.      (J.   IV,  p.  233.) 

1383.  The  general  and  special  funds  of  the  Lodge 
may  not  be  expended  for  the  following  purposes,  general 


267  R.   L.  XI,  §6. 

reference  being  had  to  T-1395,  and  special  references  as 
indicated: 

(1.)  For  festival  expenses  generally;  for  a  ball  or 
banquet  or  dinner;  in  pleasure  excursions,  picnics,  etc., 
or  for  a  refreshment  fund.  (S.  J.  7813,  7865;  J.  Ill,  p. 
158,  160,  320.) 

(2.)  In  donations  or  loans  to  pay  the  dues  or  fees 
of  members. 

(3.)  To  relieve  a  defaulting  Treasurer,  by  giving 
him  the  balance  in  his  hands  and  releasing  his  securities. 
(J.   IV,  p.  384.) 

(4.)  To  relieve  brothers  who  have  borrowed  money 
from  the  Lodge  and  who  failed  to  pay  their  notes;  the 
notes  may  not  be  given  up  to  them.     (J.  IV,  p.  384.) 

(5.)  To  pay  for  music  at  a  funeral  out  of  its  regular 
funds.     (S.  J.  8053,  8088,  8176.) 

(6.)  To  any  purpose  forbidden  by  the  principles  laid 
down  by  the  S.  G.  L. 

(7.)  It  is  illegal  for  Lodges  to  pay  out  of  their  funds 
to  a  physician  hired  by  the  year,  unless  authorized  by 
local  law.     (S.  J.  15003,  15071,  15087,  14683,  15046,  15087.) 

(8.)  Under  the  clause  "Legitimate  Expenses  of  the 
Order,"  a  Lodge  cannot  vote  money  to  the  widow  of  one 
who  was  never  a  member  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  14686, 
14948,  15019.) 

(9.)  The  donation  of  two  thousand  dollars  to  the 
widow  of  a  deceased  brother  would  be  a  violation  of  the 
law  in  regard  to  "Trust  Funds."  (S.  J.  14686,  14948,  15019.) 

(10.)  A  Lodge  may  not  use  its  funds  to  pay  a  team 
instructor  from  another  state  who  has  not  been  com- 
missioned by  the  Grand  Master.  (J.  VIII,  p.  409,  410, 
520.) 

(11.)  To  offer  a  reward  for  apprehension  and  con- 
viction of  a  ruffian  who  has  injured  a  brother  is  illegal. 
(S.  J.  9504,  9734,  9801.) 

(12.)  To  pay  the  assessments  of  a  brother  in  an  Odd 
Fellows'  Beneficial  Association,  even  though  he  makes 
the  Lodge  his  beneficiary,  is  illegal.     (S.  J.  10988,  11027.) 

(13.)  An  appropriation  to  make  up  a  deficit  on  ac- 
count of  a  clambake,  a  part  of  the  costs  of  which  has 
been  paid  by  personal  contributions.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  537, 
979,    1002.) 


R.  L.   XI,  §6. 268 

(14.)  Expenditures  for  an  anniversary  celebration 
consisting  of  a  literary  and  musical  entertainment  with 
collation  and  dance.     (S.  J.  10253,  10521,  10659.) 

(15.)  An  expenditure  (from  the  general  fund)  for 
railroad  fare  and  carriage  hire  for  members  to  attend  the 
funeral  of  a  deceased  brother.  (S.  J.  15168,  15534,  15584, 
15758,  16071,  16116;  See  §  1374  supra.) 

(16.)  An  expenditure  to  procure  street  uniforms. 
(S.  J.  6350,  6619,  6692;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  510,  827,  873.) 

(17.)  An  expenditure  to  provide  a  supper  or  banquet 
on  the  night  of  the  installation  of  ofiFicers.  (S.  J.  8839, 
9025,  9101.) 

(18.)  An  appropriation  for  the  purpose  of  entertain- 
ing the  officers  and  representatives  of  Grand  Bodies  and 
celebrating  the  anniversaries  of  Lodges.  (S.  J.  9738,  9804, 
10944,  10981,  11000.) 

(19.)  Miscellaneous  charities  or  any  charitable  pur- 
poses that  are  in  no  way  connected  with  the  Order.  (S. 
J.  11892,  12217,  12281.) 

(20.)  A  donation  to  the  "King's  Daughters."  (S.  J. 
12353,   12632,   12701.) 

(21.)  To  provide  money  to  be  awarded  as  prizes  for 
excellence  in  drills  by  the  Patriarchs  Militant.  (S.  J. 
11485,  11799,  11816.) 

(22.)  A  Lodge  cannot  donate  money  from  its  treas- 
ury as  a  baptismal  gift  to  a  baby  of  a  brother  or  sister. 
(J.  1897,  p.  19,  320,  336.) 

(23.)  To  employ  a  physician  to  attend  members  in 
good  standing  (unless  permitted  by  local  law,)  except  in 
cases  of  a  general  epidemic.  (S.  J.  15003,  15071,  15087, 
15456,  15529,  15583;  See  §  426  supra.) 

(24.)  To  pay  the  dues  of  members  enlisted  in  the 
Army  during  the  Spanish-American  war.  (S.  J.  15749, 
16071,  16116.) 

(25.)  A  donation  to  a  brother  to  be  placed  to  his 
credit  on  account  of  dues.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  19,  365,  394.) 

(26.)  A  donation  for  "faithful  service"  where  a 
brother  is  not  sick  or  in  distress,  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  25,  365, 
394.) 

(27. )A  Lodge  is  not  permitted  to  appropriate  from 
its  capitalized  general  fund  any  money  to  be  used  for 
the    purpose    of    entertaining    a    Grand    Encampment    or 


269  R.  L.  XI,  §6. 

Grand  Lodge,  or  for  the  entertainment  of  Grand  Encamp- 
ment or  Grand  Lodge  officers.  If  such  Lodge  has  set 
apart  a  special  fund  for  contingent  expenses  it  may  make 
such  an  appropriation  for  such  purpose  from  the  said 
special  fund.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  736,  799,  847.) 

GENERAL  FUNDS: 

1384.  It  is  within  the  power  of  Lodges  owning  or 
controlling  a  hall  to  appropriate  money  from  their  general 
funds  for  the  purchase  of  a  piano  for  use  in  such  hall,  or 
to  allow  the  Trustees  to  use  the  revenue  arising  there- 
from for  such  purchase.     (S.  J.  12788,  13050,  13076.) 

1385.  Lodge  funds  derived  from  rents,  and  placed  in 
the  general  fund  of  the  Lodge,  cannot  be  donated  or  used 
except  for  the  legitimate  expenditures  of  the  Order.  (S. 
J.  XIX,  p.  515,  827,  873.) 

1386.  The  general  fund  of  a  Lodge  may  be  drawn 
upon  to  a  reasonable  extent  for  the  purpose  of  protecting 
the  rental  value  of  Lodge  real  estate.     (J.   1903,  p.   156.) 

1387.  The  expense  of  printing  and  mailing  postal 
cards  giving  notice  of  a  progressive  euchre  party  to  be 
held  in  the  Lodge  room  under  the  auspices  of  the  Lodge 
and  the  Rebekah  Lodge  is  not  chargeable,  and  should 
not  be  paid  from  the  general  funds.     (J.  1895,  p.  64.) 

SPECIAL  FUNDS: 

1388.  There  is  no  law  now  in  force  which  prohibits 
any  Lodge  from  appropriating  a  portion  of  its  funds  for 
the  purpose  of  purchasing  or  erecting  a  Home  for  its 
widows  and  orphans,  but  the  law  does  forbid  appropri- 
ations of  the  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Funds  to  the  relief 
of  the  aged  and  infirm  members  of  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
10054,  10168.) 

1389.  Under  the  local  law  of  the  Grand  Jurisdiction 
of  Texas,  where  a  fund  has  been  established  to  provide 
for  the  relief  of  the  widows  and  orphans  of  deceased 
members  of  a  Lodge  who  died  in  good  standing,  when 
such  families  were  left  in  destitute  circumstances,  and 
also  for  the  education  of  the  children  of  deceased  broth- 
ers, such  funds  cannot,  in  whole  or  in  part,  be  donated 
to  the  establishment  of  a  permanent  home  for  widows 
and  orphans  of  the  jurisdiction,  it  being  a  specific  trust 
fund  of  the  members  of  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  10399,  10475.) 


R.  L.  XI,  §6.  270 

1390.  Where  a  Grand  Lodge  decides  to  establish 
Homes  for  dependent  widows,  and  maintains  and  educates 
orphans  of  deceased  Odd  Fellows,  it  may  permit  its 
Subordinates,  under  reasonable  and  proper  restriction, 
to  donate  or  loan  a  portion  of  their  Widows'  and  Or- 
phans' Fund  to  said  Homes,  but  in  any  Lodge  where  a 
proposition  is  made  for  such  donation,  it  must  lie  over 
one  week  before  final  action.     (S.  J.  12664,  12705.) 

139L  The  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  is  a  trust 
fund  for  the  use  and  benefit  of  the  widows  and  orphans  of 
deceased  members  in  good  standing;  it  is  a  misapplication 
of  such  fund  to  donate  or  appropriate  the  same  or  any 
part  thereof  for  any  purpose  whatever,  except  for  the 
direct  support  of  the  widows  and  orphans,  who  are,  under 
the  law,  legitimate  charges  upon  the  Lodge;  provided 
nothing  therein  shall  prevent  Subordinates  who  may  have 
placed  their  widows  and  orphans  in  an  asylum  or  home 
from  using  their  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  in  defray- 
ing the  legitimate  expenses  thereby  incurred,  and  the 
several  Grand  Bodies  shall  see  to  it  that  this  law  is  ob- 
served by  their  Subordinates.     (S.  J.  10986,  11027.) 

1392.  A  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  may  not  be 
merged  into  the  general  fund.  (S.  J.  4S75,  4897,  9976, 
10071.) 

1393.  When  the  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  of  a 
defunct  Lodge  passes  into  the  treasury  of  a  Grand 
Lodge,  it  should  be  credited  separately  and  distinctly 
from  the  general  fund,  and  other  funds,  and  so  held. 
After  the  five  years  within  which  no  reclamation  shall 
have  been  made  of  funds  so  surrendered,  the  final  disposi- 
tion of  them,  under  existing  law,  is  within  control  of  that 
body.  Specific  trusts,  however,  are  to  be  executed,  if 
possible,  and  a  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  should  be 
applied  to  the  use  of  such  beneficiaries.     (S.  J.  6594,  6642.) 

1394.  The  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  cannot  be 
used  to  pay  funeral  benefits,  although  the  deceased  brother 
leaves  a  widow  and  orphan  children.  It  is  for  their  direct 
and  individual  support.     (S.  J.  14684,  14948,  15019.) 

1395.  When  from  any  cause  any  separate  fund  of  a 
Lodge  shall  be  found  unnecessary,  it  shall  be  lawful  to 
otherwise  appropriate  such  fund  or  merge  it,  in  whole  or 
in  part,  into  the  general  iund:  "Provided,  that  the  object 


271  R.  L.  XI,  §8. 

contemplated  by  such  special  fund  be  otherwise  fully 
protected  and  secured.  And  provided  further,  that  pro- 
vision be  fully  made  to  return  any  donation  made  to  the 
said  special  fund  which  may  be  demanded  by  any  donor 
who  may  insist  upon  it  being  donated  to  the  object  for 
which  it  was  donated:  Provided  further,  that  no  such 
appropriation  shall  be  made  unless  the  same  shall  first 
be  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge  to  which  such  Sub- 
ordinate may  be  attached.     (S.  J.  7368,  7471,  7481,  7507.) 

1396.  There  is  no  law  prohibiting  any  Lodge  from 
appropriating  a  portion  of  its  Widows'  and  Orphans' 
Fund  for  the  purpose  of  purchasing  or  erecting  a  Home 
for  its  widows  and  orphans.     (S.  J.  10054,  10168.) 

1397.  Where  the  Grand  Lodge  of  a  jurisdiction  im- 
posed a  capitation  tax  of  two  cents  per  member  and  di- 
rected it  to  be  set  apart  to  collect  a  fund  for  the  estab- 
lishment of  an  Orphan  Asylum  under  the  control  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  also  received  donations  to  said  fund 
from  Lodges  and  individuals,  it  is  held  that  such  funds  are 
trust  funds,  donated  and  set  apart  for  a  specified  purpose, 
and  cannot  afterward  be  merged  in  the  general  fund  and 
thus  diverted  from  the  purpose  for  which  the  fund  was 
originally  created.     (S.  J.  5161,  5216.) 

1398.  In  jurisdictions  where  an  Odd  Fellows'  Home 
is  maintained,  the  Grand  Lodges  of  such  jurisdictions  are 
authorized  to  empower  Lodges  to  merge  the  Widows' 
and  Orphans'  Fund  with  the  general  funds  of  such  Lodge. 
(S.  J.  XXI,  p.  805,  843,  879.) 

1399.  FUNDS,     HOW     DISBURSED.  —  Sec. 

7.  — •  This  Lodge  may  pay  and  disburse  from 
its  funds,  from  time  to  time,  as  a  majority  of  the 
mem^bers  present  at  any  stated  meeting  shall,  by 
vote,  determine,  for  any  of  the  declared  purposes 
of  this  Degree.     (J.  1895.  p.  215.) 

1400.  INVESTMENTS,    HOW    CHANGED. 

— Sec.  8.  —  The  stocks,  securities,  investments, 
and  funds  of  this  Lodge  shall  not  be  transferred, 
in  whole  or  in  part,  except  by  a  vote  of  two-thirds 
of  the  members  present  at  a  regular  meeting.     The 


R.   L.   X],  §8.  272 

resolution  therefor  shall  have  been  presented  at 
least  one  meeting  before  final  action.  (J.  1895,  p. 
216.) 

1401.  A  Lodge  cannot  by  By-Law  pay  out  of  the 
general  funds  of  the  Lodge,  assessments,  upon  a  certificate 
of  membership,  in  an  Odd  Fellows'  Beneficial  Association, 
which  a  brother  holds,  wherein  he  has  constituted  the 
Lodge  the  beneficiary.     (S.  J.  10988,  11027.) 

1402.  A  Lodge  may  not  donate  its  funds  to  another 
charitable  organization.     (S.  J.  12353,  12632,  12701.) 

1403.  Lodges  may  loan  their  funds  upon  undoubted 
security.  (J.  1,  p.  210;  J.  IH,  522,  564.)  A  Lodge  may 
loan  its  funds  and  make  the  terms  of  investment  to  suit 
itself,  subject  to  the  provisions  of  general  or  local  law  on 
the  subject  of  restricting  the  character  of  such  invest- 
ment. (S.  J.  11897,  12192,  12276,  14433,  14481.)  The  funds 
of  a  Lodge  may  not  be  loaned  without  ample  security 
and  reasonable  interest.  (S.  J.  10860,  10902,  10865,  109O9, 
10928.) 

1404.  The  surplus  funds  may  be  invested  in  the  stock 
of  a  bank,  loan  and  trust  company,  or  other  monied  en- 
terprise, which  may  be  deemed  to  be  a  good  paying  con- 
cern.    (S.  J.  11102,  11374,  11399.) 

1405.  A  Lodge  may,  for  the  purpose  of  providing  a 
place  for  its  meetings,  use  a  reasonable  portion  of  its 
funds  to  purchase  stock  in  an  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  Asso- 
ciation, although  such  hall  or  building,  when  erected,  will 
be  used  in  part  for  other  than  Odd  Fellow  purposes. 
(S.  J.  10713,  10951,  11005.) 

1405.  A  Lodge,  while  in  existence,  may  dispose  of 
real  estate  owned  by  it  without  obtaining  permission  of 
the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  15744,  16030,  16054.) 

1407.  A  Lodge  may  build  a  hall  and  own  it  jointly 
with  a  church.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  550,  988,  1004.) 

1408.  "Undoubted  Securities,"  as  mentioned  in  the 
Subordinate  Constitution,  would  mean  good  real  estate 
mortgages,  U.  S.  bonds,  county,  town  or  school  bonds  of 
Illinois.     (J.  1091,  p.  10,  319.) 


273  R.  L.  XII,  §2. 

ARTICLE  XII.— TERMS  AND  RETURNS, 
VOTING. 

1409.  TERMS.— Section  1.— Semi-annual  terms 
shall  commence  on  the  first  regular  meetings  in 
January  and  July ;  the  annual  term  on  the  first  regu- 
lar meeting  in  January.     (J.  1895,  p.  216.) 

1410.  RETURNS.— Sec.  2.— It  shall  be  the 
duty  of  the  retiring  officers,  at  the  close  of  each 
semi-annual  term,  to  prepare  and  forward  to  the 
Grand  Lodge  immediately,  a  full  report  of  the  work 
of  the  term,  upon  the  blank  forms  furnished  from 
the  office  of  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  in  conformity 
with  instructions  from  that  officer,  accompanied  by 
whatever  amount  may  be  due  to  the  General  As- 
sembly, and  at  the  close  of  each  annual  term,  on 
December  31st,  in  like  manner,  to  make  the  annual 
report  of  membership.     (J.  1895,  p.  216.) 

1411.  Section  22,  of  the  Rebekah  Code,  last  clause, 
gives  Grand  Lodges  power  to  fix  the  penalty  for  neglect 
to  make  returns,  and  the  Constitution  fixing  such  penalty 
for  a  time  longer  or  shorter  than  the  month  allowed  un- 
der the  old  law  for  forfeiture  of  charter,  is  legal.  (S.  J. 
14676,  14948.  15019;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  22.) 

1412.  A  Grand  Lodge  having  under  its  jurisdiction 
Rebekah  Lodges,  shall  require  returns  to  be  made  by 
them  on  the  31st  of  December  of  each  year,  and  may  re- 
quire that  such  returns  shall  be  made  to  the  Secretary 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly,  and  in  such  case  shall  require 
such  officer  to  make  a  full  report  of  the  same  to  the  Grand 
Lodge.  Any  neglect  to  make  such  returns  shall  be  visited 
with  such  penalties  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction 
may  direct.     (S.  J.  14679,  14948,  15019,  15051,  15088.) 

1413.  Returns  of  Rebekah  Lodges  must  be  made  to 
the  Grand  Secretary  or  the  Secretary  of  the  Rebekah  As- 
sembly, as  by  the  terms  of  the  charter  granted  to  the 
Rebekah  Assembly  may  be  provided.  (S.  J.  15170,  15534, 
15584.) 


R.  L.  XII,  §2. 274 

1414.  Grand  Lodges  must  prepare  and  furnish  to 
the  Rebekah  Lodges  in  their  jurisdiction  blank  forms  for 
reports,  which  forms  must  require  all  the  information 
demanded  by  the  law  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  979, 
1002.) 

1415.  Lodges  are  required  to  forward  all  money  sent 
to  the  Grand  Secretary  in  the  form  of  drafts,  post  office 
money  orders  or  certificates  of  deposit  payable  to  the  order 
of  the  Grand  Secretary  by  his  name,  so  far  as  practicable; 
and  in  case  uncurrent  funds  are  sent,  that  oflficer  is  au- 
thorized to  return  them  or  charge  the  discount  to  the 
Lodge.  (For  liability  of  Lodge  in  case  money  is  lost  in 
transmission  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  see  J.  1857,  p.  83; 
J.  V,  p.  49,  72>.) 

1416.  Where  a  new  Lodge  is  instituted  less  than 
three  months  prior  to  the  close  of  the  semi-annual  term 
and  working  under  a  dispensation,  no  charter  having  been 
issued,  it  must  pay  the  full  amount  of  the  capitation  tax 
as  other  Lodges.     (J.  IX.  p.  999;  S.  J.  11101,  11368,  11396.) 

1417.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Subordinates  to  make  out 
their  returns  previous  to  installation.  (G.  L.  By-Laws, 
Art.  II,  Sec.  1.) 

1418.  All  term  reports  which  may  hereafter  be  made 
to  Grand  Bodies  by  their  Subordinates  shall  contain  in 
their  own  handwriting  the  signatures  of  the  elective  offi- 
cers thereof,  and  shall  be  carefully  preserved  by  the  Grand 
Secretary.     (S.  J.  3478,  3479.) 

1419.  The  Grand  Secretary  is  directed  to  prepare 
and  forward  duplicate  blanks  to  each  Subordinate  Lodge, 
and  it  is  the  duty  of  the  Secretary  of  each  Lodge  to  make 
out  and  forward  to  the  Grand  Secretary  with  the  annual 
report,  a  correct  and  detailed  report  of  the  financial  con- 
dition of  his  Lodge  upon  one  of  the  blank  forms  so  fur- 
nished.     (J.  VI,  p.    160.) 

1420.  After  the  Lodge  has  approved  the  semi-annual 
or  annual  reports  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  Secretary 
has  no  right  to  make  any  alterations  without  special  au- 
thority from  the  Lodge  except  to  correct  palpable  clerical 
errors.      (T-1299;    W-1033.) 

1421.  A  presiding  or  sitting  Noble  Grand  of  a  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  has  no  right  to  sign  an  annual  or  semi- 
annual report  returning  himself  as  a   Past   Grand,  unless 


275 R.  L.  XII,  §4. 

he  has  previously  passed  the  Noble  Grand's  chair.     (S.  J. 
3209,  3243.) 

1422.  The  report  of  the  Treasurer  at  the  close  of  his 
term  should  be  examined  by  the  Finance  Committee  of 
his  term,  and  before  the  first  meeting  of  the  new  term. 
(J.  Ill,  p.  444;  T-1301;  W-1035.) 

1423.  All  term  reports  which  may  be  made  to  the 
Grand  Bodies  by  their  Subordinates  should  be  signed  (in 
their  own  handwriting)  by  the  Noble  Grand,  Vice  Grand 
and  Secretary,  who  till  the  chairs  of  those  officers  on  the 
evening  when  the  reports  are  presented  for  approval, 
prior  to  the  installation,  whether  they  are  the  regular  or 
pro  tern  officers.     (J.  Ill,  p.  268.) 

1424.  Grand  Bodies  subordinate  to  the  S.  G.  L.  are 
required  to  make  such  laws  and  regulations  as  may  en- 
able them  to  collect  from  their  subordinates  the  full  re- 
turns required  by  the  By-Laws,  Article  X,  and  as  may  be 
necessary  to  insure  the  annual  return  to  the  office  of  the 
Grand  Secretary  on  or  before  the  first  day  of  April  in 
every  year.  (S.  J.  5889,  5938,  13584,  13674;  S.  G.  L.  By- 
Laws,  Article  XI.) 

1426.  CAPITATION  TAX.  — Sec.  3.  —  This 
Lodge  shall  pay  the  Rebekah  Assembly  a  per  capita 
tax  of  such  an  amount  as  the  Annual  Assembly 
may  direct.  This  Lodge,  failing  to  pay  its  per  capita 
tax  and  make  its  report,  as  provided  by  Section  2 
of  this  Article,  shall  not  be  entitled  to  representa- 
tion at  the  State  Assembly.    (J.  1895,  p.  216.) 

1427.  VOTING.— Sec.  4.— All  votes  shall 
be  viva  voce  (yes  or  no)  unless  otherwise  provided. 
J.  1895,  p.  216;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  24;  S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  845.) 

MANNER  OF  VOTING: 

1428.  All  voting  is  viva  voce,  unless  otherwise  ex- 
pressly provided.  The  exception  is  "not  alone  to  a 
ballot  for  membership,"  as  the  decision  of  the  Grand  Sire 
in  1869  (S.  J.  4467)  would  seem  to  indicate,  but  in  grant- 
ing withdrawal  cards,  suspending  or  expielling  members 
and    reinstating    them,    electing    officers,    reconsidering    a 


R.  L.  XII,  §4.  276 

ballot  for  membership  when  the  yeas  and  nays  are  or- 
dered, etc.,  in  which  cases  provision  is  made  by  law  for 
voting  otherwise.  (S.  J.  4993,  5185,  5222;  Rebekah  Code, 
Sec.  24;  S.  J.  15172,  15534,  15584.)  It  is  lawful  to  use 
printed  ballots.     (S.  J.  15758,  16071,  16116.) 

1429.  In  all  cases  of  balloting  by  balls,  the  use  of 
cubes  or  other  devices  similar  to  balls  in  form,  shall  be  a 
substantial  compliance  with  the  rule  of  law  requiring 
the  use  of  balls.  (S.  J.  15062,  15091.)  White  balls  and 
black  cubes  may  be  used.  But  it  is  improper  to  use  balls 
and  cubes  of  the  same  color,  or  to  substitute  white  cubes 
for  black  balls.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  428,  675,  709.) 

1430.  It  is  legal  and  proper  to  provide  by  By-Law 
that,  at  an  election  of  ofificers  of  the  Lodge,  the  Warden 
shall  "distribute  and  collect  the  ballots."  The  ballot  box 
is  not  required  to  be  in  the  center  of  the  hall.  (S.  J. 
9736,  9802.)  A  Lodge  can  make  a  By-Law  permitting  the 
Vice  Grand  to  destroy  the  ballot  after  the  result  of  the 
vote  has  been  announced  by  the  Noble  Grand.  (S.  J. 
12191,  12275.)  On  resolutions  relative  to  the  death  of  a 
member,  a  rising  vote  may  be  taken.  (S.  J.  8533,  8701, 
8767.) 

WHO  MAY  VOTE: 

1431.  Every  member  present  in  a  Lodge,  if  qualified 
to  vote,  is  obliged  to  vote  on  all  questions  unless  excused 
by  the  Lodge,  and  no  particular  number  of  votes  is  neces- 
sary so  long  as  a  quuDrum  is  present.  (S.  J.  4992,  5194, 
5245,  5847,  5935,  6267,  6324.) 

1432.  No  member  or  members  of  any  Lodge  or  En- 
campment shall  vote  upon  any  question  in  which  he  or 
they  may  be  interested,  or  in  which  he  or  they  intend  to 
become  interested,  by  reason  of  his  or  their  connection 
with  any  Lodge  or  Encampment  of  this  Order,  then  ex- 
isting, or  about  to  exist,  or  with  any  other  organization. 
And  should  a  member  or  members  so  vote,  he  shall,  upon 
discovery  and  proof  of  the  fact,  be  considered  guilty  of 
unbecoming  conduct,  for  which  he  may  be  suspended 
from  the  Order.  And  the  Lodge  or  Encampment  in  which 
the  offense  was  committed  may,  in  case  said  member  has 
joined  some  other  Lodge  or  Encampment,  institute 
charges  for  said  offense  in  said  other  jurisdiction,  with 
the  right  to  appeal  from  its  decision  should  the  brother 


277  R.  L.  XII,  §4. 

be  acquitted  of  the  charge.  (S.  J.  5776,  5785.)  Held,  that 
the  above  law  applied  to  a  case  where  certain  members 
of  a  Lodge,  who  were  also  members  of  the  Knights  of 
Pythias,  claimed  the  right  to  vote  on  the  question  of 
permitting  the  use  of  certain  personal  property  of  the 
Lodge  by  that  organization,  and  that  it  deprived  such 
member  of  the  right  to  vote  on  the  question.  (S.  J.  8054, 
8098.) 

The  foregoing  law  has  been  amended  as  follows: 
No  member  of  a  Lodge  or  Encampment  shall  vote  upon 
any  question  relating  to  the  fiscal  affairs  of  his  Lodge 
or  Encampment  in  the  result  of  which  he  has  a  direct 
personal  interest,  but  may  vote  upon  all  questions  con- 
cerning the  leasing  or  renting  of  the  hall  or  other  property 
of  his  Lodge  or  Encampment  to  any  Lodge,  Encampment, 
Canton,  Rebekah  Degree  Lodge,  or  Uniformed  Degree 
Camp  of  this  Order,  and  that  all  law  in  conflict  herewith 
be,  and  the  same  is,  hereby  repealed.  (S.  J.  10094,  10174.) 
Held,  that  the  amendment  did  not  apply  to  a  case  of 
voting  to  loan  the  money  of  a  Lodge  to  a  Canton,  and 
that  a  member  of  a  Canton  had  no  right  to  vote  to  loan 
the  money  of  his  Lodge  to  his  Canton.  (S.  J.  10909, 
10928.) 

1433.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  is  not  debarred  from 
voting  upon  the  question  of  the  execution  of  a  lease  be- 
tween said  Lodge  and  an  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  Association, 
by  the  mere  fact  that  he  is  a  holder  of  stock  in  said  Asso- 
ciation, the  Lodge  in  question  being  also  a  holder  of 
one-fifth  of  the  stock  of  said  Association.  (S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  38,  365,  394.) 

1434.  A    directly   interested    member   may    not   vote; 
for  example,  an  accused  member  may  not  vote  on  ques- 
tions arising  in  his  trial.     (W-1004;  T-1264.) 
WHERE  VOTE  CAST: 

1435.  No  Past  Grand  or  member  can  legally  vote  in 
any  other  than  his  own  Lodge  (S.  J.  14248,  14487,  14570; 
S.  J.  XIX,  p.  516,  827,  873)  unless  specially  authorized 
by  local  legislation  to  vote  elsewhere,  for  the  election  of 
Grand  Officers.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  21,  219,  243.) 

1436.  Members  cannot  vote  from  the  ante-room.  To 
be  entitled  to  take  part  in  the  business  of  the  Lodge  they 
must  come  into  the  Lodge  room  proper.    The  ante-room 


1 


R.  L.  XIII,  §1.  278 

is  a  part  of  tlie    Lodge   room   only   for   certain   purposes. 
(S.  J.   14250,  14487,   14570.) 

1437.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  can  only  vote  when 
present  in  the  Lodge.  A  letter  cannot  stand  for  or  repre- 
sent a  vote  of  a  member,  even  on  a  proposition  to  sur- 
render the  charter.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  23,  284,  314.) 

CANVASSING  VOTE: 

1438.  It  is  lawful  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  provide  that 
the  Supporters  of  the  Noble  Grand  shall  inspect  the  ballot 
box  upon  a  ballot.  The  Noble  Grand,  however,  alone  has 
the  prerogative  to  declare  the  result.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  16, 
365,  394.) 

1439.  The  casting  of  an  illegal  vote  does  not  invali- 
date a  ballot,  unless  it  afifirmatively  appears  that  such 
illegal  vote  did  change,  or  might  have  changed,  the  result. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  42,  365,  394.) 

1440.  Legal  votes  are  not  to  be  thrown  out  in  order 
to  exclude  illegal  votes,  unless  necessity  requires  it  as  the 
only  means  of  preventing  the  consummation  of  a  fraud. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  293,  309.) 

1441.  In  case  of  a  tie  vote  the  question  is  not  lost; 
the  Noble  Grand  should  give  the  casting  vote.  (Rebekah 
Const.,  Art.  IV,  Sec.  2.) 

1442.  If  the  accuracy  of  the  count  of  a  vote  bj'  the 
Tellers  is  disputed  (which  is  allowable)  the  vote  should 
be  taken  again,  if  the  objection  be  made  at  once,  before 
the  declaration  is  concurred  in  at  all;  even  if  only  the 
count  of  the  negative  is  disputed  both  sides  of  the  vote 
should  be  taken  again  at  the  next  trial.  (S.  J.  2783-5, 
2818;  W-1008.) 

ARTICLE  XIIL  — LAWS,   CONSTRUCTIONS. 
AMENDMENTS,  ETC. 

1443.  LAWS,  DECISIONS,  ETC.-^Section  1. 
— The  laws  controlling  this  Lodge  shall  be  the  laws, 
rules  and  usages  and  general  regulations  of  the 
Order,  the  Constitution  of  this  Lodge  and  other 
laws  for  their  government  enacted  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  and  the  By-Laws  of 
this  Lodge  not  inconsistent  therewith.     The  laws 


279  R.  L.  XIII,  §2. 

of  the  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  the  decisions  thereon 
by  the  Grand  and  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge,  shall, 
so  far  as  applicable,  control  in  the  government  of 
this  Rebekah  Lodge  in  all  cases  not  specially  pro- 
vided by  the  laws  of  the  Rebekah  branch  of  the 
Order.  (J.  1895,  p.  216;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  34; 
S.  J.  XIX,"  p.  849.) 

1444.  The  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge  has  control  over 
the  unwritten  work  of  the  Rebekah  Degree,  and  de- 
termines the  customs  and  usages  in  regard  to  all  things 
which  appertain  to  the  degree  (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  1 
and  7.)  No  one  but  a  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  shall 
witness  the  conferring  of  the  Degree.  (Rebekah  Code, 
Sec.  7.)  The  Rebekah  Code  repeals  all  laws  and  parts  of 
laws  in  conflict  therewith.  (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  35;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  849.) 

1445.  FORFEITURE    OF    CHARTER.— Sec. 

2. — This  Lodge  shall  forfeit  its  charter  if  it 
fails  to  comply  with  the  reqtiisitions  and  laws  of 
the  Grand  Lodge ;  and  in  such  cases  it  shall  be  the 
duty  of  the  last  installed  officers  to  comply  with  the 
provisions  of  the  1st  and  2d  Sections  of  Article  II 
of  the  By-Laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  (J.  1895, 
p.  216.) 

1446.  Should  any  Subordinate  or  Rebekah  Lodge  fail 
to  hold  its  meetings  for  six  months,  or  make  its  returns 
as  required  by  the  Constitution  for  one  year,  it  shall  be 
deemed  an  extinct  Lodge,  and  its  charter  forfeited.  It 
shall  be  the  duty  of  all  Lodges  to  make  out  their  returns 
previous  to  installation.  (J.  1905,  p.  274,  295;  Code  1906, 
§  691.) 

1447.  In  all  cases  where  a  Lodge  shall  have  been 
suspended  or  expelled,  or  its  charter  shall  have  been  for- 
feited, the  charter,  funds,  books,  properties  and  efifects 
of  all  kinds  belonging  to  or  owned  by  such  Lodge,  shall 
revert  to  the  Grand  Lodge;  and  it  shall  be  the  duty  of 
the  last  installed  officers  of  such  Lodge  to  deliver  them 
all  immediately  to  the  Grand  Master,  or  his  deputy  au- 
thorized by  him  to  receive  them.     (J.  1905,  p.  275,  295.) 


R.  L.  XIII,  §3. 280 

1448.     Form  for   Closing   Rebekah   Lodges 
of  Illinois. 

Name    of    Lodge 

Number  of  Lodge 

Location:    City County 

Last  installed  officers: 

N.  G Sec'y. 

V.  G Fin.  Sec'y. 

Treas. 

List  of  Past  Noble  Grands. 

Brothers 

Sisters 

Members. 

Brothers - 

Sisters 

Amount  in  treasury 

List  of  supplies 

Effects  of  Lodge,  such  as  paraphernalia,  etc 


Charter  recovered:     Yes No 

Number  of  Rituals  recovered 

Seal  Recovered :     Yes No 

Charter,  Rituals,  Seal  and  Records  shipped,  via 

to G.  Secretary. 

Date  of  shipment 

Amount  of  funds  remitted  to  G.  Secretary, 

Sent  by:  Express Draft P.  O.  Order 

Date  when  closed 

By  whom  closed: ,  Special  Deputy 

Post  Office  Address Street  No 

Four  copies  of  this  report  are  to  be  made  out.  One 
copy  each  to  be  sent  to  the  Grand  Master  and  Grand 
Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  the  President  and 
Secretary  of  the  Rebekah  State  Assembly  of  Illinois. 

The  commission  of  the  Special  Deputy  shall  be  re- 
turned to  the  Grand  Master.     (J.  1907,  p.  390,  424.) 

1449.    SURRENDER    OF    CHARTER.  —  Sec. 

3.  —  This  Lodge  cannot  voluntarily  surrender 
its  charter  nor  dissolve  as  long  as  five  members,  in 
good   standing,   desire   to   retain   such   charter  and 


281 R.  L.  XIII,  §4. 

work  under  it :  Provided,  that  when  a  vote  upon 
the  surrendering  of  said  charter  is  to  be  taken,  no- 
tice shall  be  sent  to  all  the  members  in  this  Lodge 
in  good  standing.  (J.  1895,  p.  216;  Rebekah  Code, 
Sec.  28;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  848.) 

1450.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  authorize  the  continu- 
ation of  membership  after  a  Lodge  has  become  defunct 
by  permitting  the  members  of  such  defunct  Lodge  to  pay- 
one  dollar  per  month  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdic- 
tion.    (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  40,  284,  314.) 

1451.  The  charter  of  a  Lodge  cannot  be  surrendered 
so  long  as  five  members  desire  to  retain  it.  Before  any 
action  is  taken  to  surrender  the  charter,  notice  thereof 
should  be  sent  to  all  members.  It  is  not  necessary,  how- 
ever, to  wait  to  hear  from  absent  members,  residing  at 
great  distances  from  the  Lodge,  such  as  Alaska  or  the 
Philippine  Islands.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  23,  284,  314.) 

1452.  It  is  not  legal  at  an  adjourned  meeting  of  a 
Lodge  to  entertain  a  motion  to  surrender  a  charter  of  a 
Lodge  and  appoint  a  special  meeting  to  consider  and  vote 
upon  such  motion.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  24,  284,  314;  also  277, 
313.) 

1453.  POWER  TO  MAKE  BY-LAWS.— Sec. 
4. — This  Lodge  shall  stand  fully  invested  with 
power  to  adopt  such  By-Laws  and  Rules  of  Order, 
from  time  to  time,  as  may  be  deemed  expedient, 
provided  they  do  not  in  any  way  contravene  any  of 
these  Articles,  the  Laws  and  Constitution  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  or  the  Sovereign  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows, 
or  the  principles  of  the  Order.  A  copy  of  the  By- 
Laws,  or  any  amendments  thereto,  shall,  immedi- 
ately after  adoption  by  the  Lodge,  be  sent  by  the 
Secretary  to  the  Grand  Secretary  for  the  approval 
of  the  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals,  which 
approval  shall  be  necessary  before  such  By-Laws 
or  amendments  thereto  shall  become  operative.  The 
By-Laws  shall  not  be  suspended,  set  aside  or  al- 


R.  L.  XIII,  §4.  282 

tered,  except  by  regular  process  of  amendment,  a 
written  proposition  for  which  shall  have  been  be- 
fore the  Lodge  at  least  one  week.     (J.  1895,  p.  217.) 

1454.  The  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals  is 
authorized  to  act  on  the  By-Laws  submitted  in  recess 
when  the  Grand  Secretary  advises  that  they  should  be 
acted  upon  for  the  good  of  the  Lodge.     (J.  1907,  p.  411.) 

1455.  The  Grand  Lodge  has  decided  that  a  By-Law 
may  be  adopted  and  enforced  to  prohibit  smoking  in  the 
Lodge  room  while  the  Lodge  is  in  session.  (J.  1895, 
p.   148,  223.) 

1456.  A  Lodge  by  its  By-Laws  has  no  occasion  to 
make  any  provisions  respecting  charges  and  trials,  and 
such  provisions  are  of  no  force,  the  whole  matter  depend- 
ing upon  the  Constitution  and  general  law.     (T-1951.) 

1457.  Lodges  have  no  legislative  power  whatever, 
except  to  make  By-Laws  for  their  own  internal  govern- 
ment.    (S.  J.  1724,  1797,  1784,  1786,  1807.) 

1458.  Lodges  may  enact  their  own  By-Laws,  pro- 
vided the  same  are  not  in  conflict  with  the  laws  of  the 
Order.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  42,  361,  371.) 

1459.  When  the  Constitution  and  By-Laws  conflict 
with  the  laws  and  decisions  of  the  Grand  Lodge  or  of  the 
S.  G.  L.,  the  laws  of  the  latter  bodies  must  be  conformed 
to.     (S.  J.  3415,  3463.) 

1460.  The  By-Laws  of  a  Lodge  should  follow  the 
Constitution  provided  for  it  in  all  matters.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  295,  390,  413.) 

1461.  Lodges  have  a  right  to  make  By-Laws  for 
their  internal  government.  A  Grand  Body  cannot  make 
By-Laws  for  its  Subordinates,  but  has  the  right  of  super- 
vision, and  may  approve  or  disapprove.  It  may  frame 
a  Model  Code  of  By-Laws  and  recommend  the  same  to 
its  Subordinates,  but  cannot  compel  its  adoption.  It  can, 
however,  enact  a  uniform  Constitution,  and  may  therein 
regulate  the  matter  of  benefits,  so  far  as  the  general  law 
allows,  and  the  By-Laws  of  Subordinates  must  conform 
to  such  Constitution.  A  committee  of  a  Grand  Body, 
appointed  to  supervise  the  By-Laws  of  its  Subordinates, 
has  no  right  to  make  new  laws  for  them  or  to  disapprove 


283  R.  L.  XIII,  §5. 

By-Laws  which  are  not  in  conflict  with  law,  and  it  can 
only  amend  a  By-Law  in  so  far  as  may  be  necessary  to 
make  it  conform  to  the  general  or  local  law.  (S.  J. 
13258,  13548,  13671.) 

1462.  The  supervision  and  approval  of  the  By-Laws 
of  Lodges  belongs,  and  should  be  left,  to  the  Grand 
Lodge;  and  that  supervision  should  not  be  interfered 
with  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  unless  the  proposed  By-Law  is  in 
direct  conflict  with  the  Constitution  or  laws  of  the  S.  G. 
L.  The  decision  of  a  Grand  Lodge  approving  By-Laws: 
First,  requiring  a  vote  upon  an  application  for  a  visiting 
card;  second,  fixing  the  weekly  rate  of  dues  in  cents  and 
fractions  of  a  cent;  third,  provided  "That  in  case  the 
regular  Lodge  meeting  shall  come  on  a  holiday,  the 
Lodge  may,  by  vote,  appoint  another  night,"  was  sus- 
tained.    (S.  J.  8082,  8174.) 

1463.  Grand  Lodges  have  the  right  to  approve  By- 
Laws  adopted  by  their  Subordinates.     (S.  J.  15424,  15545.) 

1464.  When  the  laws  of  a  Grand  Body  provide  for 
the  approval  by  it  of  the  By-Laws  of  its  Subordinates, 
such  By-Laws  to  have  force  and  effect  must  be  con- 
firmed in  accordance  with  such  laws.  Grand  Bodies  have 
full  power  and  control  of  the  subject,  and  the  S.  G.  L. 
will  not  interfere  therein  unless  upon  appeal  in  the  usual 
manner.     (S.  J.  6618,  6691,  7173,  7380,  7474,  8330,  8439.) 

1465.  A  Grand  Body  refused  its  approval  of  the 
By-Laws  of  one  of  its  Subordinates  in  reference  to  ex- 
cusing a  visiting  committee,  and  the  vote  necessary  to 
order  a  draft  for  money  on  the  Treasurer.  Held,  to  be 
an  exercise  of  discretion  in  a  matter  in  which  the  Grand 
Lodge  had  full  and  complete  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  8075, 
8173.) 

1466.  A  Lodge  has  no  power  to  pass  a  By-Law  to 
be  operative  only  for  a  fixed  period  of  time.  (J.  1901, 
p.  11,  319.)  A  Lodge  may  not  suspend  a  By-Law  for  a 
fixed  period  of  time.     (J.  1901,  p.  11,  319.) 

1467.  An  amendment  to  a  Lodge  By-Law  is  in- 
operative and  has  no  force  until  approved  by  the  Com- 
mittee on  Judiciary  and  Appeals.     (J.   1895,  p.  80.) 

1468.  NOBLE   GRAND   TO   CONSTRUE.— 

Sec.  5. — When  doubts  arise  as  to  the  true  mean- 
ing  of   any    of   these    Articles,    they    shall    be    de- 


R.  L.  XIII,  §6.  284 

termined  by  the  Noble  Grand,  such  determination 
being  subject  to  an  appeal  to  the  Lodge  and  its  de- 
termination being  subject  to  the  Grand  Lodge, 
whose  decision  shall  be  final  in  all  cases.  (J.  1895, 
p.  217.) 

1469.  AMENDMENTS,  HOW  MADE.— Sec. 
6. — These  Articles,  or  any  part  thereof,  shall 
not  be  altered,  amended  or  annulled  except  on  mo- 
tion made  in  the  Grand  Lodge  at  a  regular  session, 
in  writing;  and  such  motion  shall  not  be  finally 
acted  upon  the  day  of  its  presentation.  (J.  1895, 
p.  217.) 

1470.  Provisions  fundamental  in  character  and  neces- 
sary to  the  perfect  existence  of  a  Lodge  should  be  placed 
in  its  Constitution  and  not  in  its  By-Laws.     (S.  J.  1271.) 

1471.  Grand  Bodies  being  expressly  declared  the 
legislative  heads  of  the  Order  in  the  several  jurisdictions, 
have  unquestionably  the  power  to  adopt  a  uniform  system 
of  Constitutions  for  their  Subordinates,  and  the  Subor- 
dinates are  bound  to  conform  to  such  Constitutions.  The 
power  of  determining  whether  a  Subordinate  By-Law  is 
in  conflict  with  such  Constitution  also  rests  with  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  should  not  be  interfered  with  by  the 
S.  G.  L.,  except  on  appeal  taken  in  the  usual  manner. 
(S.  J.  1235,  1317,  6618,  6691.) 

1472.  Grand  Lodges  have  the  power  to  adopt  Con- 
stitutions for  the  government  of  their  Subordinates,  and 
to  alter  or  amend  them  at  will.  There  being  no  restric- 
tion in  the  power  of  the  Grand  Lodge  on  the  subject, 
these  Constitutions  can  be  amended  without  the  amend- 
ment lying  over  until  the  next,  or  any  other,  subsequent 
session  for  consideration.      (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  41,  219,  243.) 

1473.  They  may  in  such  Constitutions  fix  and  estab- 
lish a  uniform  charge  for  the  degrees,  and  Lodges  must 
conform  thereto.     (S.  J.  9275,  9347.) 

1474.  An  amendment  to  the  Constitution  of  Sub- 
ordinates by  a  Grand  Body  in  conflict  with  its  own  or- 
ganic law  is  illegal.     (S.  J.  9503,  9734,  9801.) 

1475.  A  resolution  granting  a  dispensation  for  one 
year  to   Subordinates   to   receive   members   at  a  less   sum 


285  R.  L.  XIII,  §6. 

than  the  constitutional  limit,  is  in  effect  an  amendment 
to  the  Constitution,  and  where  the  requirement  of  the  law- 
is  that  it  requires  a  two-thirds  vote  to  amend  the  Con- 
stitution, such  resolution  passed  by  the  majority  vote  of 
the  Grand  Body  does  not  amend  it.     (S.  J.  11246,  11310.) 

1476.  A  By-Law  cannot  be  suspended  on  motion; 
it  can  only  be  amended,  modified  or  repealed  in  the  way 
designated  by  the  Code  of  laws  itself.     (S.  J.  4149,  4170.) 

1478.  A  Lodge  may  repeat  its  name  and  number  in 
its  By-Laws,  although  the  same  appears  in  its  Constitu- 
tion.    (S.  J.  XX,  p.  295,  390,  413.) 

1479.  Unless  forbidden  by  the  Constitution  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  a  Subordinate  may  enact  a  By-Law  fixing 
the  compensation  of  the  Secretary  and  provide  therein 
that  it  shall  take  effect  at  a  past  date.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  507, 
827,  873.) 

1480.  A  By-Law  that  the  Vice  Grand  may  appoint  a 
minority  of  two  committees,  is  not  in  conflict  with  the 
Constitution,  providing  that  the  Noble  Grand  may  appoint 
a  majority  in  all  committees.     (S.  J.  4876,  4897.) 

1481.  Where  a  By-Law  reads  as  follows:  "No  mo- 
tion to  repeal  or  amend  these  By-Laws  or  any  part  of 
them  shall  be  put  to  vote  until  the  same  has  been  read 
in  the  Lodge  at  three  consecutive  regular  meetings,"  it  is 
not  in  order  to  move  at  the  third  reading  to  amend  the 
motion,  unless  permitted  by  the  local  law.  (S.  J.  9736, 
9802.) 

1482.  A  Subordinate,  by  vote,  adopted  an  amendment 
to  a  By-Law  and  at  the  next  meeting  a  motion  was  made 
to  reconsider  the  vote.  The  law  provided  that  no  amend- 
ment to  the  By-Law  should  be  made,  unless  written 
notice  thereof  be  given  at  the  regular  meeting  previous 
to  its  being  acted  on.  There  was  also  a  rule  of  order  that 
no  motion  for  a  reconsideration  should  be  received,  unless 
made  within  two  meetings  after  taking  the  vote  upon  any 
question.  Held,  that  there  was  no  conflict  in  these  pro- 
visions of  law.  Until  the  expiration  of  the  time  of  the 
reconsideration  under  the  rules  of  order,  legislation  on 
the  subject  had  not  been  concluded,  and  the  Subordinate 
still  had  control  of  it.  The  reconsideration  of  the  vote 
was  not  equivalent  to  an  amendment  to  the  By-Law. 
(S.  J.  6964,  6973.) 


R.  L.  Rules  of  Order.  286 


MODEL  RULES  OF  ORDER 

( FOR  REBEKAH  LODGES ) 


1483.  (1.)  When  the  presiding  officer  takes 
the  chair,  the  officers  and  members  take  their  re- 
spective seats,  and  at  the  given  signal  there  shall 
be  general  silence. 

ORDER  OF  BUSINESS. 

(2.)     The    following    shall    be    the    Order    of 
Business : 

J.     Calling  the  roll  of  officers. 
II.     Presentation  of  cards  of  visitors  in  waiting 
and  the  reception  of  visitors.     Cards  should 
also  be  received  at  any  later  time  during  the 
session. 
III.     Reading  and  disposing  of  records. 
IV.     Does  any  member  know  of  a  sick  member, 
or  of  one  in  distress? 
V.     Communications  read  and  referred  : 

1.  From  the  Grand  Lodge. 

2.  From  other  Lodges. 

3.  From  persons. 

4.  Bills  against  the  Lodge. 

VI.     Consideration  of  previous  proposals  for  mem- 
bership or  reinstatement: 

1.  Reports  of  Investigating  Committee. 

2.  Balloting. 

3.  Admission  of  new  members. 
VII.     Reports  of  Committees  and  Officers: 

1.  Of  Trustees. 

2.  Of  Visiting  Committee. 


287  R.  L.  Rules  of  Order. 


3.  Of  Finance  Committee. 

4.  Of  other  Standing  Committees. 

5.  Of  Special  Committees  by  seniority. 

6.  Of  Treasurer,    first    meeting    of     each 
month. 

7.  Of  Secretaries   and   Treasurer,   close  of 
term. 

VITI.     Unfinished  Business : 

1.     The  special  order  of  the  evening. 
Other  matters  on  the  record. 

IX.     New  Business: 

1.  Proposals  for  membership  or  reinstate- 
ment. 

2.  Applications  for  cards. 

3.  Resignation  of  office  or  of  membership. 

4.  Nominations  for  office. 

5.  Elections. 

6.  Installations. 

7.  ^Appointments. 

8.  Resolutions  and  motions. 

X.     Good  of  the  Order : 

1.  Has  any  member  anything  to  oft'er  for 
the  good  of  the  Order? 

2.  Are  there  any  cases  requiring  the  charity 
of  the  Order? 

XI.     Announcements. 

1.  Of  special  meetings. 

2.  Of  miscellaneous  matters. 

3.  Of  receipts  of  the  evening  in  detail,  by 
the  Financial  Secretary. 

4.  Of  disbvirsements  of  the  evening  in  de- 
tail, by  the  Recording  Secretary. 

XII.     Closing.  (T-612.) 


I 


R.  L.  Rules  of  Order.  288 


Sec.  3.— During  the  reading  of  the  minutes 
or  of  any  letters  or  papers,  or  while  a  member  is 
addressing  the  chair,  silence  shall  be  observed  in 
the  room,  and  no  talking  shall  be  permitted  to  in- 
terrupt the  proceedings.     (T-600.) 

Sec.  4. — No  member  shall  disturb  another 
while  addressing  the  chair,  unless  to  call  him  or 
her  to  order.  No  member  shall  rise  from  his  seat 
while  another  member  is  speaking,  and  on  no  pre- 
tense whatever  pass  between  the  member  who  is 
speaking  and  the  presiding  officer.     (T-601.) 

Sec.  5. — On  the  call  of  five  members,  all  de- 
bate shall  cease  and  the  question  shall  be  put  to 
vote.     (T-602.) 

Sec.  6. — Any  member  may  call  for  a  division 
of  the  question  when  it  can  be  divided,  but  a  mo- 
tion to  strike  out  and  insert  shall  be  indivisible, 
except  at  the  option  of  the  mover.     (T-603.) 

Sec.  7. — If  the  reading  of  any  paper  be  called 
for  and  it  be  objected  to  by  any  member,  the  ques- 
tion shall  be  determined  by  a  vote  of  the  Lodge 
without  debate.     (T-604.) 

Sec.  8. — Every  member  present  shall  vote  on 
all  questions  before  the  Lodge  unless  the  Lodge 
excuse  him  or  her  from  so  doing  for  special  reasons. 
(T-605.) 

Sec.  9. — The  person  first  named  on  a  commit- 
tee shall  act  as  chairman  thereof  unless  the  com- 
mittee select  a  dififerent  member  for  that  office. 
The  mover  and  seconder  of  a  resolution  referred  to 
a  Special  Committee  are  usually  the  first  named 
thereon.     (T-606.) 

Sec.   10. — The  chairman  or  any  member  doubt- 


289  R.  L.  Rules  of  Order. 


ing  the  decision  of  the  Lodge  may  call  a  count  or 
a  division  of  the  votes.     (T-607.) 

Sec.  11. — No  member  shall  speak  on  any  ques- 
tion before  the  Lodge  unless  he  (or  she)  rise  from 
his  (or  her)  seat  and  respectfully  address  the  chair. 
A  member  speaking  shall  confine  himself  (or  her- 
self) to  the  subject  under  debate,  and  shall  use  no 
personal,  indecorous  or  sarcastic  language,  to  re- 
flect on  the  Lodge  or  its  members,  and  when  his 
(or  her)  speech  shall  have  been  concluded,  he  (or 
she)  shall  resume  his  (or  her)  seat.     (T-608.) 

Sec.  12. — If  tw^o  or  more  members  rise  at  the 
same  time  to  speak,  the  chair  shall  decide  which  is 
entitled  to  the  floor.  Whenever  a  member,  while 
speaking,  shall  be  called  to  order,  he  (or  she)  shall 
resume  his  (or  her)  seat  until  the  question  is  settled 
and  leave  is  given  him  (or  her)  to  proceed.  (T-609.) 

Sec.  13. — No  committee  can  be  finally  dis- 
charged until  all  debts  contracted  by  it  shall  have 
been  paid.     (T-610.) 

Sec.  14. — All  questions  not  herein  provided  for 
shall  be  decided  upon  the  principles  laid  down  in 
Robert's  Rules  of  Order.     (T-611.) 


R.  L.  Model  By-Laws.  290 


MODEL  By-Laws 

(  FOR  REBEKAH  LODGES  ) 


1484.  ARTICLE  L 

Section   I. — This  Lodge  shall  hold  its   regular 

meetings   on evening  of 

each (T-584.) 

Sec.  2. — The  hour  of  meeting  shall  be  during 
the  months  of  November,  December,  January  and 
February  at o'clock  ;  during  March,  Sep- 
tember and  October  at o'clock,  and  during 

April,  May,  June,  July  and  August  at o'clock. 

(T-585.) 

Sec.  3. — This  Lodge  shall  be  opened  at  the  ap- 
pointed time,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as  a  quorum  is 
present.     (T-586.) 

ARTICLE  II. 

Section  1. — The  dues  shall  be cents 

per  week,  payable  quarterly.     (T-587.) 

Sec.  2 — The  fee  for  a  visiting  card  shall  be 
cents.     (T-588.) 

Sec.  3. — The  fee  for  a  withdrawal  card  shall  be 
cents.     (T.  589.) 

Sec.  4. — The   fee   for   initiation   shall   be   for   a 

brother, ;  for  a  sister, 

(T-590.) 

Sec.  5. — The  fee  for  reinstatement  after  drop- 
ping for  non-payment  of  dues  shall  be 

(not  less  than  one  year's  dues.)     (T-591.) 

Sec.  6. — The  fee  for  reinstatement  after  expul- 
sion shall  be  the  same  as  charged  for  initiation. 
(T-592.) 


291  R.  L.  Model  By-Laws. 


ARTICLE  III. 

Section  1. — The  Finance  Committee  and  the 
Visiting  and  Relief  Committee  shall  be  appointed 
immediately  after  installation,  as  provided  by  the 
Constitution.     (T-593.) 

Sec.  2. — Should  a  member  be  sick  or  in  distress, 
it  shall  be  the  duty  of  any  other  member  knowing 
the  fact  to  report  the  case  promptly  to  the  Visiting 
Committee.     (T-594.) 

Sec.  3. — Upon  the  death  of  an  unsuspended 
member  of  this  Lodge,  or  of  a  traveling  member 
entitled  to  burial  by  the  Order,  deceased  near  this 
Lodge,  the  Noble  Grand  shall  solicit  the  permission 
of  the  family  of  the  deceased  to  conduct  the  funeral 
according  to  the  custom  of  the  Order;  and  upon 
obtaining  their  consent,  shall,  in  concert  with  the 
Visiting  Committee,  take  charge  of  the  funeral,  or 
co-operate  with  the  friends  or  family  in  making  ar- 
rangements ;  and  she  or  he  shall  cause  the  Secre- 
tary to  notify  the  members  of  the  Lodge  to  assemble 
and  attend  the  funeral.     (T-595.) 

Sec.  4. — Failure  to  attend  as  a  watcher  with  a 
sick  member  or  at  the  funeral  of  a  member  when 
notified  to  watch  or  in  any  way  informed  of  the 
funeral,  is  an  ofifense  the  penalty  of  which  shall  be 

a  fine  of  $ ,  and  if  it  be  accompanied  by 

aggravating  circumstances,  such  other  penalty  may 
be  inflicted  as  the  Lodge  may  determine.     (T-596.) 

Sec. 5. — A  practicing  physician  may  be  exempt 
from  watching.  The  brothers  of  this  Lodge  and 
brothers  attending  the  funeral  of  a  brother  with  his 
Subordinate  Lodge,  shall  be  excused  from  attending 
with  Rebekah  Lodge.  Reasonable  excuse  may  be 
ofifered  in  bar  or  mitigation  of  offenses  for  which 


R.  L.  Model  By-Laws.  292 


fines  may  be  imposed,  opportunity  for  which  shall 
always  be  allowed,  and  the  matter  shall  be  decided 
by  the  Noble  Grand,  and  any  appeal  from  her  or 
his  summary  decision  must  be  taken  at  the  time 
thereof.     (T-597.) 

ARTICLE  IV. 

Section  1. — These  By-Laws  shall  be  in  force 
from  and  after  their  adoption  and  approval  by  the 
Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals.  All  former 
By-Laws  are  hereby  repealed. 

Sec.  2. — These  By-Laws  shall  not  be  repealed, 
amended  or  added  to,  unless  a  written  resolution 
embodying  the  proposed  alteration  shall  have  been 
submitted  and  read  on  at  least  two  regular  meetings 
previous  to  that  at  which  action  is  had  on  the 
proposition ;  and  the  resolution  shall  be  adopted 
only  by  a  vote  of  two-thirds  of  the  voting  members 
present.     (T-599.) 


293  Assembly  I,  §2. 


CONSTITUTION 


(As  revised  and  amended  by  the  Rebekah  State  Assembly,  and 
approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge  in  1905.  Journal,  pages  348  to  355, 
both  inclusive.) 

ARTICLE  I.— NAME  AND  OBJECT. 

1485.  NAME. — Section  1. — This  organization 
shall  be  known  as  the  "Rebekah  State  Assembly  of 
Illinois." 

1486.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  authorize  the  existence 
of  any  other  Rebekah  Grand  Body  than  an  Assembly. 
(S.  J.  15172,  1SS34,  1SS84,  15613.) 

1487.  The  Rebekah  Lodges  and  Rebekah  Assembly 
are  subordinate  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  in  the  interim 
of  its  sessions,  the  Constitution  vests  a  suspending  power 
in  the  Grand  Master  which  cannot  be  taken  away  from 
him.  (S.  J.  14678,  15011,  15072;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  30; 
S.  J.  XIX,  p.  848.)  Appeals  from  the  Assembly  shall  be 
taken  to  the  Grand  Lodge.  (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  32;  S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  848.) 

1488.  OBJECTS     AND     PURPOSES.  —  Sec. 

2. — The  object  of  this  assembly  shall  be  to  create 
a  deeper  interest  in  the  Rebekah  branch  of  the  Or- 
der; to  propose  to  the  Grand  Lodge  suitable  legis- 
lation for  this  branch  of  the  Order;  to  collect  and 
report  such  information  as  will  lead  to  a  better  un- 
derstanding of  its  character  and  object;  and  to  aid 
in  the  maintenance  (of)  The  Odd  Fellows'  Homes 
of  Illinois. 

1489.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  delegate  the  entire 
Rebekah  branch  to  the  control  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly. 
(S.  J.  14241,  14487,  14570.) 

1490.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  empower  a  committee 
of  the  Assembly  to  determine  and  give  effect  to  the  By- 
Laws  of  Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  14679,  14948,  15019.) 
In    Illinois,    By-Laws    must    be    approved    by    the    Grand 


Assembly  II,  §1.  294 


Lodge  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals.     (See  §  1453 
supra.) 

1491.  A  Rebekah  Assembly  properly  authorized  has 
the  power  to  define  who  have  a  right  to  legislate,  serve 
on  committees,  or  vote  in  such  body.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  540, 
988,  1004.) 

1492.  The  S.  G.  L.  can  furnish  supplies  direct  to 
Rebekah  Assemblies  when  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  jurisdiction.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  834,  903,  916.) 

ARTICLE  II.— MEMBERSHIP. 

1493.  MEMBERS,  WHO  ARE.— Section  L— 
This  Assembly  shall  consist  of  the  following  mem- 
bers :  One  Delegate  (who  must  be  a  sister  Past 
Noble  Grand  in  good  standing)  from  each  Rebekah 
Lodge  in  the  State,  and  all  other  Past  Noble  Grands, 
and  those  who  have  heretofore  received  or  may- 
hereafter  receive  the  Assembly  Degree,  in  good 
standing  in  Rebekah  Lodges  in  this  jurisdiction; 
provided,  however,  that  each  delegate  or  Past  Noble 
Grand  shall  not  be  a  member  of  this  Assembly  until 
in  possession  of  the  Assembly  Degree.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  984,  1003 ;  J.  1907,  p.  385,  424.) 

1494.  To  be  a  member  of  a  Rebekah  Assembly  one 
must  hold  membership,  as  required  by  the  Rebekah  Code, 
Section  33,  in  the  jurisdiction  in  which  the  Rebekah  As- 
sembly is  located.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  33,  34,  361,  371,  372.) 

1495.  Past  Grands,  Past  Noble  Grands,  and  all  who 
have  received  the  Assembly  Degree,  are  members  of  the 
Rebekah  Assembly  of  their  jurisdiction,  whether  delegates 
or  not.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  34,  361,  371,  372.) 

This  decision  was  rendered  before  Section  33  of  the  Rebekah 
Code  was  amended  in  1902.  By  this  amendment,  all  who  received 
the  Assembly  Degree  prior  to  the  adoption  of  the  amendment  remain 
members  of  the  Assembly. —  (Editor.) 

1496.  The  Rebekah  Assembly  Degree  adopted  in  1895 
is  not  for  Past  Noble  Grands.  It  can  be  conferred  only 
on  those  entitled  to  admission  to  a  Rebekah  Assembly 
at  Assembly  meetings.     (S.  J.  14674,  14948,  15019.) 


295  Assembly  II,  §1. 


1497.  Rebekah  Assemblies  cannot  admit  Representa- 
tives to  seats  therein  who  do  not  possess  the  qualifications 
designated  for  membership  therein,  by  the  charter  of  the 
Assembly  and  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32, 
365,  394.) 

1498.  A  Subordinate  Grand  Lodge  has  the  right  to 
authorize  representation  of  Rebekah  Lodges  in  the  Re- 
bekah Assembly  by  Past  Grands  of  Subordinate  Lodges 
who  are  members  of  Rebekah  Lodges  in  good  standing, 
as  well  as  by  Past  Noble  Grands  of  Rebekah  Lodges. 
In  case  such  authority  is  given,  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  having 
in  its  membership  a  Past  Grand,  need  not  go  without 
representation  until  it  has  a  Past  Noble  Grand.  In  all 
cases  a  representative  from  a  Rebekah  Lodge  to  a  Re- 
bekah Assembly  must  possess  the  qualifications  required 
by  the  law  of  the  jurisdiction.  If  the  Lodge  has  not 
among  its  members  in  good  standing  such  qualified  mem- 
bers, it  may  select  as  its  Representative  a  member  of  an- 
other Rebekah  Lodge,  who  does  possess  the  requisite 
qualifications,  if  the  local  law  so  provides.  (S.  J.  15755, 
16118,  16153;  B-2466.) 

1499.  A  Grand  Master  has  the  right  to  visit  officially 
the  Rebekah  Assembly  of  his  own  jurisdiction.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  510,  827,  873.) 

1500.  The  Grand  Secretary,  simply  by  virtue  of  his 
office  as  such,  has  not  the  right  to  visit  and  take  part  in 
the  Rebekah  Assembly.     (S.  J.  14712,  14948,  15019.) 

1501.  Only  those  specified  in  Section  33  of  the  Re- 
bekah Code  may  attend  a  Rebekah  Assembly  or  receive 
the  Degree.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  34,  361,  371,  372.) 

1502.  The  Rebekah  Assembly  Degree  is  open  to  the 
Grand  Masters  and  Grand  Representatives  of  their  juris- 
diction for  official  visitation.     (S.  J.  14674,   14950,   15067.) 

1503.  Should  a  Grand  Representative  be  elected  by 
his  Lodge  as  a  Representative  to  the  Assembly,  he  should 
take  the  obligation  of  the  Assembly  Degree  before  enter- 
ing upon  his  duties  as  a  member.  (S.  J.  14676,  14948, 
15019.) 

1504.  No  part  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  Degree,  ex- 
cept the  obligation,  can  be  transmitted,  except  orally. 
If  Representatives  did  not  acquire  it  at  the  Session,  ther<" 


Assembly  III,  §1.  296 


is  no  way  for  the  jurisdiction  to  get  possession  of  it  other 
than  to  send  one  or  more  of  its  Representatives  to  Balti- 
more and  learn  it.     (S.  J.  14675,  14948,  15019.) 

This  section  is  doubtless  modified  by  the  subsequent  law  pro- 
viding for  the  )\irnishing  of  a  printed  copy  of  the  unwritten  work  to 
each  Grand  Jui-isdiction,  and  the  adoption  of  a  Ritual  of  the  Degree. 

—  (Editor.) 

1505.  The  Grand  Representatives  are  authorized  to 
confer  the  Rebekah  Assembly  Degree  on  the  President 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly,  and  the  Presidents  of  the  Re- 
bekah Assemblies  are  authorized  to  confer  the  Degree, 
or  cause  the  same  to  be  done,  in  their  respective  Assem- 
blies, upon  sisters  and  brothers  who  are  eligible  to  mem- 
bership in  said  Rebekah  Assemblies.     (S.  J.  15051,  15088.) 

1506.  A  jurisdiction  has  the  right  to  confer  the  As- 
sembly Degree  on  Past  Grands  who  are  not  Past  Noble 
Grands.     (S.  J.  15754,  15802,  16097,  16143.) 

ARTICLE  III.— OFFICERS. 

1507.  ELECTIVE   OFFICERS.— Section   1.— 

The  elective  officers  of  the  Assembly  shall  be  a 
President,  Vice-President,  Warden,  Secretary, 
Treasurer,  and  Chief  of  Instructors,  said  Chief  of 
Instructors  to  be  approved  and  commissioned  by 
the  Grand  Master.     (Rebekah  Code.  Sec.  31;  S.  J. 

XIX,  p.  848,  942.) 

1508.  The  officers  of  a  Rebekah  Assembly  have  the 
right  to  hold  any  office  in  the  Rebekah  Lodge  in  which 
they  hold  membership.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  43,  219,  243.) 

1509.  The  right  of  a  brother  who  is  a  Past  Grand, 
member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  Past  Noble  Grand  and 
a  member  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  to  vote  and  hold 
office  in  the  Rebekah  Assembly  depends  on  the  legislation 
of  the  Assembly  of  his  jurisdiction  as  approved  and  per- 
mitted by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  that  jurisdiction.  (S.  J. 
XXII.  p.  441,  675,  709.) 

1510.  A  Rebekah  Assembly  cannot  restrict  the  right 
to  vote  for  officers  thereof  to  legislative  members.     (S.  J. 

XX,  p.  36,  361,  371,  372.) 

1511.  The  right  to  vote  for  Assembly  officers  cannot 


297  Assembly  IV,  §1. 


be  restricted  to  sister  Past  Noble  Grands.  (S.  J.  XX, 
p.  2>6,  361,  371,  372.) 

1512.  A  Rebekah  Assembly  may,  with  the  approval 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  adopt  a  law  providing  that  only  Past 
Noble  Grands  and  Past  Grands  shall  participate  in  its 
deliberations,  vote  or  hold  ofifice.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  34,  361, 
371,  2,72;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  984,  1003.) 

1513.  Unless  the  local  law  forbids,  a  sister  member 
(of  the  Assembly)  in  good  standing  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
may  be  elected  and  installed  an  oflficer  of  the  Rebekah 
Assembly  of  the  State  in  which  the  Lodge  to  which  she 
belongs  is  located,  even  though  she  does  not  reside  in  the 
State.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  509,  827,  873.) 

1514.  APPOINTIVE     OFFICERS.  —  Sec.     2. 

— The  appointive  officers  shall  be  a  Marshall,  Con- 
ductor, Chaplain,  Inside  Guardian,  and  Outside 
Guardian. 

1515.  VACANCY,  HOW  FILLED.  —  Sec. 
3. — In  case  of  a  vacancy  arising  in  any  office  during 
recess  of  this  Assembly,  the  President  shall  fill  the 
same  by  appointment. 

ARTICLE  IV.— DUTIES  OF  OFFICERS. 

1516.  THE  PRESIDENT.  —  Section  1.  — The 
President  shall  preside  at  all  meetings  of  this  As- 
sembly, and  shall  preserve  order  and  enforce  the 
rules.  She  shall  appoint  all  Assembly  officers  pro 
tempore,  and  all  Assembly  officers  not  elective.  She 
shall  name  the  members  of  all  committees,  unless 
otherwise  ordered  by  this  Assembly.  She  may  call 
special  sessions  of  the  Assembly,  and  shall  do  so 
whenever  requested  by  the  delegates  of  fifty  Re- 
bekah Lodges.  She  shall  order  the  payment,  by  the 
Assembly  Treasurer,  of  all  moneys  voted  by  the 
Assembly;  she  shall  hold  the  bonds  of  the  Secretary 
and  Treasurer,  and  at  each  annual  session  shall  re- 
port her  official  acts  to  this  Assembly. 


Assembly  IV,  §1.  298 


1517.  The  Grand  Lodge  may  authorize  the  President 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  to  appoint  and  commission 
District  Deputies  for  Rebekah  Dodges  in  this  jurisdiction. 
(S.  J.  15606,  15633;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  535,  752,  820.) 

1518.  In  all  jurisdictions  of  the  S.  G.  L.  where  Re- 
bekah Assemblies  are  organized,  Grand  Lodges  are  per- 
mitted to  authorize  and  empower  the  Presidents  of  such 
Assemblies  to  appoint  and  commission  District  Deputy 
Presidents  for  Rebekah  Lodges  in  their  respective  juris- 
dictions having  the  corresponding  powers  and  privileges 
of  Presidents  of  Rebekah  Assemblies  in  the  same  manner 
as  possessed  by  District  Deputy  Grand  Masters  in  Sub- 
ordinate Lodges.  Provided,  that  in  jurisdictions  where 
no  Rebekah  Assemblies  exist,  the  title  of  such  officers 
shall  be  District  Deputy  Grand  Master,  otherwise  to  be 
known  and  hailed  as  Deputy  Presidents.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p. 
832,   876.) 

1519.  Without  the  approval  of  the  Grand  Master, 
a  Grand  Lodge  cannot  give  to  the  President  of  its  Re- 
bekah Assembly  power  to  decide  all  questions  of  law  and 
usage  governing  Rebekah  Lodges  and  make  such  decisions 
binding  until  reversed  by  the  Assembly.  (S.  J.  14679, 
15011,  15072.) 

1520.  If  the  p'ower  has  been  delegated,  the  President 
of  a  Rebekah  Assembly  may  grant  permission  to  Rebekah 
Lodges  to  restore  expelled  members.  (S.  J.  15752,  16071, 
16116.) 

1521.  Where  the  authority  has  been  delegated  by  the 
Grand  Lodge,  the  President  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly 
may  formulate  and  give  out  the  term  password.  (S.  J. 
15754,  16071,  16116.) 

1522.  A  Grand  Lodge  can  delegate  to  the  President 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  the  power  ad  interim  to  decide 
questions  of  Rebekah  law,  her  decision  to  stand  until  re- 
viewed by  the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  15752,  16071,   16116.) 

1523.  A  Grand  Lodge  can  delegate  to  the  President 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  the  power  ad  interim  to  ap- 
prove the  By-Laws  of  Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  15752, 
16071,  16116;  See  §  870  supra.) 

1524.  If  the  power  has  been  delegated  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction,   the   President   of  the   Rebekah 


299  Assembly  IV,  §3. 


Assembly  can  ad  interim,  grant  dispensations  to  Rebekah 
Lodges  without  the  approval  of  the  Grand  Master.  (S.  J. 
15752,  16096,  16143.) 

1525.  The  President  of  a  Rebekah  Assembly  doubt- 
less may  appoint  other  than  those  officers  named  in  Sec- 
tion 31  (of  the  Code)  e.  g.,  Supporters,  but  they  would 
not  rank  as  officers,  only  assistants.  (S.  J.  14241,  14487, 
14570.) 

1526.  On  general  principles,  the  President  and  Vice- 
President  of  a  District  Rebekah  Assembly  should  be  Past 
Noble  Grands.     (J.  1901,  p.  16,  270,  294.) 

1527.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  instituting  ofificer  upon 
instituting  a  new  Rebekah  Lodge,  to  at  once  report  the 
fact  to  the  President  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly.  (J.  1898, 
p.  260.) 

1528.  THE     VICE-PRESIDENT.— Sec.     2.— 

The  Vice-President  shall  assist  the  President,  and 
in  case  of  the  inability  of  the  President  to  act  on 
account  of  absence  from  the  Assembly,  or  in  the 
event  of  her  death  or  resignation,  the  duties  of  the 
President  shall  devolve  upon  her.  She  shall  report 
all  new  legislation  and  decisions  of  the  Sovereign 
Grand  Lodge  relating  to  the  Rebekah  branch  of  the 
Order. 

1529.  A  Vice-President  of  a  Rebekah  Assembly,  who, 
upon  the  death  of  the  President,  discharged  the  duties  of 
that  office  during  a  major  portion  of  the  term,  is  not  en- 
titled to  the  rank  and  honors  of  Past  President,  although 
elected  and  installed  President  on  the  first  day  of  the 
meeting  of  the  Assembly.  Regular  election  and  installa- 
tion into  the  office  of  President,  and  service  rendered 
according  to  the  provisions  of  the  Constitution  of  the 
Rebekah  Assembly  of  that  jurisdiction,  are  essential  pre- 
requisites.    (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  31,  284,  314.) 

1530.  THE  WARDEN.— Sec.  3.— The  War- 
den shall,  under  the  President,  have  charge  of  the 
door,  and  assist  the  President  in  conducting  the 
business  of  the  Assembly. 


Assembly  IV,  §4.  300 


1531.  THE  SECRETARY.— Sec.  4.— The  Sec- 
retary shall  record  the  proceedings  of  the  As- 
sembly, and  send  to  each  Rebekah  Lodge  and  to 
its  delegate  a  printed  copy  thereof;  she  shall  keep 
the  accounts  of  the  Assembly  with  the  various  Re- 
bekah Lodges ;  she  shall  receive  all  moneys  coming 
to  the  Assembly  and  pay  the  same  to  the  Treasurer, 
taking  her  receipt  therefor;  shall  notify  Rebekah 
Lodges  of  special  sessions  other  than  those  for  the 
conferring  of  the  Assembly  Degree.  She  shall  give 
a  bond,  signed  by  some  corporate  surety  company 
licensed  by  the  State  of  Illinois,  in  such  sum  as 
may  be  determined  by  the  By-Laws  of  this  Assem- 
bly, the  cost  of  said  bond  to  be  defrayed  by  the 
Assembly. 

1532.  The  sale  of  all  Rebekah  supplies  by  the  As- 
sembly Secretary  has  been  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 
(J.   1900,  p.  267.) 

1533.  The  Secretary  of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  is 
authorized  to  send  out  the  passwords  to  Rebekah  Lodges 
in  this  jurisdiction.     (J.  1900,  p.  26,  269.) 

It  is  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Master,  in  person  or  by 
Deputy,  to  communicate  the  necessary  passwords  to  be 
used  in  this  jurisdiction.  (Sec.  2,  Art.  IV,  G.  L.  Const.; 
also  Sec.  Zl,  Rebekah  Code,  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  849,  942.)  The 
passwords  of  the  Rebekah  Lodges  are  such  passwords. 
The  attempt  to  give  the  President  of  the  Rebekah  As 
sembly  power  to  make  and  send  out  the  S.  A.  P.  W.  by 
resolution  is  void.  The  only  way  to  confer  this  authority 
is  by  amendment  to  the  Constitution  of  the  Assembly. 
(See  Sec.  2,  Art.  IV,  G.  L  Const.;  report  of  Grand  Mas- 
ter, J.  1901,  p.  7;  eighth  report  of  the  Committee  on  Legis- 
lation, J.  1901,  p.  263;  Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  38;  S.  J.  XIX, 
p.  849.) 

1536.  The  Grand  Secretary  of  the  S.  G.  L.  is  author- 
ized to  sell  Rebekah  Veteran  Jewels  on  the  order  of  the 
Secretary  of  a  Rebekah  Assembly  in  jurisdictions  which 
have  delegated  to  the  Rebekah  Assembly  the  right  to 
handle  Rebekah   Lodge   supplies;  provided  that  said   Re- 


301  Assembly  V,  §1. 


bekah  Assembly  shall  first  provide  for  securing  and  re- 
taining the  record  of  membership  necessary  to  entitle 
the  sister  to  wear  the  Rebekah  Veteran  Jewel.  (S.  J. 
XXI,  p.  776,  846.) 

1537.  THE     TREASURER.  —  Sec.     5.  —  The 

Treasurer  shall  receive  all  moneys  paid  to  her  by 
the  Assembly  Secretary,  giving  her  receipt  for  the 
same;  she  shall  pay  all  warrants  drawn  on  her  by 
the  President,  and  none  others ;  shall  keep  an  ac- 
count of  all  moneys  received  and  paid  by  her,  to 
whom  paid,  and  for  what  purpose.  She  shall  give 
a  bond,  signed  by  some  corporate  surety  company 
licensed  by  the  State  of  Illinois,  in  such  sum  as 
may  be  determined  by  the  By-Laws  of  this  Assem- 
bly, the  cost  of  said  bond  to  be  defrayed  by  the 
Assembly.  She  shall  submit  her  books,  warrants 
and  funds  to  the  Finance  Committee  for  annual 
examination. 

1538.  THE  CHIEF  OF  INSTRUCTORS.— 
Sec.  6 — The  duties  of  the  Chief  of  Instructors  shall 
be  to  hold  such  schools  of  instruction  during  the 
session  of  the  Assembly  as  may  be  provided  for; 
she  shall  recommend  all  Examiners  and  Instructors 
to  the  Grand  Master  for  appointment  and  commis- 
sion as  such ;  she  shall  render  to  this  Assembly, 
annually,  a  report  of  her  labors,  together  with  such 
recommendations  as  she  may  from  time  to  time 
deem  expedient. 

1539.  OTHER  OFFICERS.  —  Sec.  7.  —  The 
Marshal,  Conductor,  Chaplain,  Inside  Guardian  and 
Outside  Guardian  shall  perform  such  official  duties 
as  the  usages  of  the  Order  may  require. 

ARTICLE  v.— SESSIONS. 

1540.  ANNUAL  SESSION— Section  1.— This 
Assembly  shall  meet  annually  at  the  same  time  and 


Assembly  V,  §2.  302 


place  as  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  this  meeting  shall 
be  called  the  Annual  Session. 

1541.  SPECIAL  SESSION  S.— Sec.  2.— 
Special  meetings  for  the  confering  of  the  Assembly 
Degree  may  be  called  on  the  request  of  any  Re- 
bekah  Lodge  or  Lodges,  provided  said  Lodge  or 
Lodges  pay  the  actual  railroad  fare  and  hotel  bills 
incurred  by  the  President,  or  Vice  President  or 
Warden  representing  her,  and  the  Secretary  of  the 
Assembly.  Special  Sessions  may  be  called  by  the 
President,  or  on  the  request  of  fifty  delegates.  At 
Special  Sessions  of  the  Assembly  no  business  shall 
be  transacted  except  that  for  which  the  Session  is 
called,  which  business  shall  be  distinctly  stated  in 
the  call. 

1542.  Unless  the  Grand  Lodge  or  the  charter  of  a 
Rebekah  Assembly  permits,  a  Rebekah  Assembly  cannot 
convene  in  Special  Session  to  confer  the  Assembly  De- 
gree.    (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  510,  827,  873.) 

1543.  QUESTIONS,  HOW  DECIDED.— Sec. 

3. — All  questions  before  this  Assembly  shall  be  de- 
cided by  a  majority  vote  of  all  members  present 
and  voting,  unless  otherwise  provided. 

1544.  ROLL  CALL,  HOW  ORDERED,  AND 
WHO  VOTE.— Sec.  4.— A  roll-call  of  Lodges  shall 
be  ordered  on  any  pending  question  upon  the  writ- 
ten request  of  ten  delegates,  and  on  such  roll-call 
only  delegates  shall  vote. 

1545.  BASIS  OF  REPRESENTATION  ON 
ROLL-CALL. — Sec.  5. — Each  delegate  shall,  on 
roll-call,  be  entitled  to  one  vote  for  every  ten 
members  in  good  standing  at  the  close  of  the  pre- 
ceding semiannual  term ;  provided,  however,  that 
any  Rebekah  Lodge  with  less  than  ten  members 
shall  be  entitled  to  one  vote. 


303  Assembly  VI,  §5. 


ARTICLE  VI.— STANDING   COMMITTEES. 

1546.  COMMITTEES  CREATED;  HOW 
AND    WHEN    APPOINTED.— Section     1.— The 

President  of  the  Assembly  shall,  within  twenty  days 
after  regular  annual  installation,  appoint  the  follow- 
ing Standing  Committees,  to  serve  for  one  year : 
Executive  Committee,  of  nine;  Credential  Commit- 
tee, of  seven ;  Legislative  Committee,  of  seven ;  Fi- 
nance Committee,  of  three ;  Foreign  Correspond- 
ence Committee,  of  seven ;  Mileage  and  Per-diem 
Committee,  of  nine ;  Committee  on  State  of  Order, 
of  seven ;  and  a  Printing  Committee,  of  three.  She 
shall  also  appoint  such  Special  Committees  as  may 
be  ordered. 

1547.  EXECUTIVE  COMMITTEE,  DUTIES 
OF.  —  Sec.  2.  —  The  Executive  Committee  shall 
arrange  for  a  place  suitable  for  annual  meetings, 
and  such  other  matters  as  may  be  referred  to  them. 

1548.  CREDENTIAL     COMMITTEE.  —  Sec. 

3. — The  Credential  Ccmmittee  shall  report  without 
delay  on  the  credentials  of  delegates  and  Past  No- 
ble Grands. 

1549.  LEGISLATIVE  COMMITTEE.  —  Sec. 
4. — The  Legislative  Committee  shall  report  on 
all  resolutions  referred  to  it,  proposing  the  enact- 
ment, repeal  or  amendment  of  any  law,  and  upon 
such  other  matters  as  may  be  referred  to  it. 

1550.  FINANCE  COMMITTEE.  —  Sec.  5. — 
The  Finance  Committee  shall  report  upon  all  claims 
and  accounts  against  the  Assembly,  previous  to 
such  claims  and  accounts  being  allowed.  It  shall 
audit  the  books  of  the  Secretary  and  Treasurer 
annually,  and  the  accounts  of  all  officers  and  com- 
mittees entrusted  with  the  receipt  and  disbursement 
of  the  funds  of  this  Assembly.     It  shall   annually 


Assembly  VI,  §6.  304 


confer  with  the  Finance  Committee  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  regarding  the  placing  of  the  bonds  of  the 
Secretary  and  Treasurer  of  the  Assembly.  It  shall, 
from  time  to  time,  suggest  such  measures  of  finance 
as  may  be  deemed  expedient. 

1551.  FOREIGN       CORRESPONDENCE 

C  O  M  M  I  T  T  E  E.— Sec.  6.— The  Foreign  Corre- 
spondence Committee  shall  report  the  progress  of 
the  Order  in  other  jurisdictions,  as  it  may  be  able 
to  obtain  information. 

1552.  MILEAGE  AND  PER  DIEM  COM- 
MITTEE.—Sec.  7.— The  Mileage  and  Per  Diem 
Committee  shall  report  the  number  of  miles  neces- 
sarily traveled,  by  the  shortest  traveled  route,  by 
each  Assembly  Officer,  Past  President,  Delegate, 
and  member  of  the  various  Standing  Committees, 
the  number  of  days'  attendance  at  the  meetings, 
and  the  amount  due  each.  The  committee  shall 
make  its  estimate  by  allowing  five  cents  a  mile  one 
way  and  $2.00  per  diem :  Provided,  that  Past  Presi- 
dents, to  be  entitled  to  mileage  and  per  diem,  must 
have  reached  the  honors  of  this  Assembly  and  be 
residents  of  this  jurisdiction.     (J.  1907,  p.  409,  410.) 

1553.  PRINTING  COMMITTEE.— Sec.  8.— 

— The  Printing  Committee  shall  superintend  all 
printing,  and  shall  make  contracts  for  the  purchase 
of  all  stationery  and  blanks  not  supplied  by  the 
Sovereign  Grand  Lodge.  They  shall  advertise  for 
bids  for  printing  Officers'  Reports,  the  proceedings 
of  the  Annual  Sessions  of  this  Assembly,  and  such 
other  printing  as  may  be  required  by  the  Assembly 
Officers,  awarding  the  contracts  to  the  lowest  re- 
sponsible bidders,  reporting  the  list  of  said  bidders, 
with  prices,  to  the  next  Session  of  the  Assembly. 
They    shall    sign     all     bills     for    which    they    have 


305  Assembly  VII,  §3. 


awarded  contracts  as  being  correct,  and  forward  the 
same  to  the  Finance  Committee  for  its  approval. 

1554.  COMMITTEE  ON  STATE  OF  THE 
ORDER.— Sec.  9.— The  Committee  on  the  State 
of  the  Order  shall  report  on  such  parts  of  the  Offi- 
cers' Reports  as  relate  to  the  State  of  the  Order ; 
they  shall  report  the  progress  of  the  Order  in  this 
jurisdiction,  and  upon  such  other  matters  as  may 
be  referred  to  it. 

1555.  TRUSTEES.  —  Section  10.  —  The  Re- 
Rebekah  State  Assembly  shall  elect  five  Trustees 
from  members  of  this  Rebekah  State  Assembly,  to 
serve  for  a  term  of  one  year.     (J.  1907,  p.  422.) 

ARTICLE  VII.— MISCELLANEOUS. 

1556.  QUORUM.  — Section  1.  — Fifty  duly 
elected  delegates  shall  constitute  a  quorum  for  the 
transaction  of  business. 

1557.  DELEGATES,  WHEN  ELECTED.— 
Sec.  2. — Delegates  shall  be  elected  by  the  Re- 
bekah Lodges  for  the  term  of  two  years,  at  the  first 
meeting  in  January,  immediately  after  installation, 
notification  being  sent  to  the  Assembly  Secretary 
of  said  election  on  blanks  prepared  for  that  purpose ; 
even-numbered  Lodges  electing  in  even-numbered 
years  and  odd-numbered  Lodges  in  odd-numbered 
years. 

1558.  VACANCY  IN  OFFICE  OF  DELE- 
GATE.— Sec.  3. — In  case  of  a  vacancy  in  the 
office  of  Delegate,  the  Lodge  shall  fill  the  same  by 
election ;  but  said  election  shall  not  take  place  until 
the  next  regular  meeting  after  the  vacancy  has  oc- 
curred ;  provided,  however,  that  when,  on  account 
of  the  delay,  there  will  not  be  sufficient  time  for 
the  delegate  to  prepare  to  attend  the  annual  session, 
the  Lodge  may  fill  the  vacancy  forthwith. 


Assembly  VII,  §4.  306 


1559.  PER  CAPITA  TAX  AUTHORIZED.— 

Sec.  4. — The  Assembly  is  empowered  to  levy 
such  per  capita  tax  as  may,  from  time  to  time,  be 
deemed  necessary. 

1560.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  transfer  its  powers  to  tax 
Rebekah  Lodges  to  the  Assembly,  under  Section  30  of  the 
Rebekah  Code.     (S.  J.  14673,  15011,  15072.) 

1561.  A  Grand  Lodge  can  authorize  the  Rebekah 
Assembly  chartered  by  it,  to  levy  a  per  capita  tax  on  its 
Subordinate  Rebekah  Lodges.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  510,  827, 
873.) 

1562.  A  Grand  Lodge  can  authorize  its  Rebekah 
Assembly  to  levy  upon  and  collect  from  its  Rebekah 
Lodges  a  per  capita  tax.     (S.  J.  14678,  14948,  15019.) 

1563.  ADDITIONAL  PER  DIEM.— Sec.  5.— 
The  President,  Secretary',  Treasurer,  Finance  Com- 
mittee and  Mileage  and  Per  Diem  Committee 
shall  meet  one  day  prior  to  the  regular  session,  and 
shall  receive  the  usual  per  diem  therefor. 

ARTICLE  VIIL— AMENDMENTS. 

1564.  HOW  MADE.— Section  1.— This  Con- 
stitution shall  not  be  amended  or  altered,  only  by  a 
proposition  in  writing  submitted  at  an  annual  ses- 
sion, which  proposition  shall  set  forth  the  proposed 
amendment  or  alteration,  and  the  section  as  it 
would  read  if  thus  altered  or  amended.  It  shall  lie 
over  until  the  next  regular  session,  and  shall  not 
be  in  force  until  adopted  by  a  two-thirds  vote  of  the 
members  of  the  Assembly  present  and  voting,  and 
approval  by  the  Grand  Lodge ;  but  if  there  are  any 
changes  in  the  legislation  or  any  part  of  this  Con- 
stitution which  shall  be  found  to  be  in  conflict  with 
the  laws  of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge,  or  Grand 
Lodge,  such  part  may  be,  by  majority  vote,  imme- 
diately stricken  out  or  amended  to  conform  with  the 
laws  of  the  Sovereign  Grand  Lodge  or  the  Grand 
Lodge. 


307  Assembly  By-Laws. 


BY-LAWS 


(As  adopted  by  the  Rebekah  State  Assembly,  and  approved  by 
the  Grand  Lodge  in  1905,  Journal,  pages  352  to  355,  inclusive.) 

ARTICLE  I.— MEETINGS. 
1565.  WHEN  CONVENED.  — Section  L  — 
This  Assembly  shall  convene  at  9:30  A.  M.  on  the 
Wednesday  following  the  third  Tuesday  of  No- 
vember and  adjourn  from  time  to  time  until  the 
business  of  the  session  shall  be  completed,  unless 
otherwise  ordered  by  a  vote  of  the  Assembly. 

ARTICLE  II.— SALARIES. 

OF  OFFICERS.— Section  L— The  salary  of  the 
President  shall  be  $250  per  year  and  expenses ;  that 
of  the  Secretary  shall  be  $600  per  year  and  ex- 
penses, and  that  of  the  Treasurer  $100  per  year  and 
expenses ;  the  maximum  amount  of  expenses  to  be 
fixed  in  advance  at  each  session. 

ARTICLE  III.— BONDS. 

OF  OFFICERS.— Section  1.— The  Secretary's 
bond  shall  be  in  the  sum  of  $7,000,  and  that  of  the 
Treasurer  in  the  sum  of  $15,000,  to  be  duly  ap- 
proved by  the  Finance  Committee  and  the  As- 
sembly. 

ARTICLE  IV.— MISCELLANEOUS. 

REGALIA  TO  BE  WORN.— Section  1.— No 
member  of  the  Assembly  shall  be  allowed  to  speak 
unless  in  the  proper  regalia,  but  in  lieu  of  regalia 
a  ribbon  badge  of  pink  and  green  may  be  used. 

ELECTION.— Sec.  2.— The  election  of  offi- 
cers shall  be  the  special  order  of  business  immedi- 
ately on  opening  Wednesday  afternoon. 


I 


Assembly   By-Laws.  308 


TELLERS. — Sec.  3.— In  the  election  of  officers, 
seven  tellers  shall  be  appointed — four  by  the  Presi- 
dent, and  three  by  the  Vice-President. 

ARTICLE  v.— AMENDAIENTS. 

HOW  MADE.— These  By-Laws  shall  not  be 
amended  or  altered  except  by  a  two-thirds  vote  of 
the  members  of  the  Assembly  present  and  voting, 
and  the  approval  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

1566.  RULES  OF  ORDER. 

RULE  I.    ORDER  OF  BUSINESS. 

1.  Opening  Ceremonies. 

2.  Appointments  by  the  President, 

3.  Roll  Call  of  Officers  and  Delegates. 

4.  Reading  of  Minutes. 

5.  Reports  of  Oft'icers. 

6.  Reports  of  Standing  Committees. 

a.  Credential  Committee. 

b.  Executive  Committee. 

c.  Legislative  Committee. 

d.  Finance  Committee. 

e.  Foreign  Correspondence  Committee. 

f.  Printing  Committee. 

g.  Committee  on  the  State  of  the  Order, 
h.  Mileage  and  Per  Diem  Committee. 

7.  Reports  of  Special  Committees,  by  seniority. 

8.  Unfinished  Business. 

9.  New  Business. 

10.  Elections. 

11.  Installations. 

12.  Closing. 

RULE  II.  No  minority  report  of  any  Commit- 
tee shall  be  accepted  until  after  that  of  the  majority 
shall  have  been  presented. 


309  Assembly  By-Laws. 


RULE  III.  The  above  Rules  of  Order  may,  at 
any  time,  be  suspended  by  a  two-thirds  vote  of  the 
members  of  the  Assembly  present  and  voting,  ex- 
cept that  the  report  of  the  Credential  Committee 
shall  always  be  privileged  to  take  priority  over  all 
other  business. 

RULE  IV.  These  rules  may  be  amended,  al- 
tered or  rescinded  by  a  two-thirds  vote  of  all  mem- 
bers voting. 

RULE  V.  In  the  absence  of  any  special  rule 
governing  this  Assembly,  Robert's  Rules  of  Order 
shall  govern  as  to  all  questions  of  parliamentary 
practice.     (J.  1905,  p.  353,  354,  355.) 


Certif.   of  Membership.         310 


Miscellaneous   Decisions    and  Legislation 

CERTIFICATE  OF  MEMBERSHIP: 

1567.  A  certificate  of  the  Secretary  of  the  Subordin- 
ate Lodge  of  which  the  applicant  is  a  member,  with  the 
seal  attached,  shall  accompany  all  applications  for  mem- 
bership made  to  a  Rebekah  Lodge;  and  it  is  the  duty  of 
every  Secretary  to  fill  out  and  furnish  to  every  member 
who  is  in  good  standing,  such  a  certificate  upon  applica- 
tion therefor,  and  no  vote  of  the  Lodge  is  necessary  for 
such  certificate.     (S.  J.  4466,  4598,  4614,  10523,  10660.) 

1568.  It  is  unlawful  to  refuse  to  a  brother  in  good 
standing  a  certificate  of  his  standing  in  the  Lodge,  to  be 
filed  with  an  application  for  membership  in  a  Rebekah 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  518,  827,  873.) 

EMBLEMS: 

1569.  The  emblem  of  "Three  Links,"  the  words 
"Friendship,  Love  and  Truth,"  and  the  initials  "F.  L.  & 
T."  are  ofificially  adopted  as  emblems  and  badges  of  the 
Order.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  782,  854.) 

1570.  A  member  of  the  Order  cannot  use  any  of  the 
emblems  belonging  to  the  Order  in  connection  with  any 
advertisement,  or  for  public  display,  not  directly  apper- 
taining to  the  wants  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  1401,  1471,  1485.) 

1571.  The  S.  G.  L.  has  enacted  the  following  legis- 
lation concerning  the  use  of  the  emblems  and  mottoes  of 
the  Order  for  advertising  purposes  in  private  enterprises: 

(1.)  That  no  member  of  the  Order  shall,  either 
directly  or  indirectly,  use  or  sanction  the  use  of  any  of 
the  emblems,  the  name,  or  any  of  the  titles,  or  the  mot- 
toes, or  the  initials  thereof,  of  this  Order,  in  the  prose- 
cution of  any  private  business  or  enterprise. 

(2.)  That  no  member  or  officer  of  any  Lodge  or 
Encampment  of  this  Order  shall,  either  directly  or  in- 
directly, use  or  permit  the  use  of  his  name,  as  such  mem- 
ber or  officer,  in  any  private  business  or  enterprise. 

(3.)  That  a  member  of  this  Order  shall  not  use  any 
of  its  emblems,  its  name,  or  any  of  its  titles,  its  mottoes 
or  the  initials  thereof,  in  any  advertisement  or  public  dis- 
play not  authorized  by  some  law  of  the  Order. 


311  Emblems. 

(4.)  That  any  member  of  the  Order,  or  officer  of  a 
Lodge  or  Encampment,  who  shall  be  guilty  of  any  of  the 
offenses  defined  and  set  forth  in  the  three  preceding  reso- 
lutions, shall  be  considered  guilty  of  a  fraud  upon  the 
Order,  and  shall  be  suspended  or  expelled  from  member- 
ship at  the  option  of  his  Lodge  or  Encampment. 

(5.)  That  the  foregoing  shall  not  be  construed  to 
apply  to  any  periodical  or  newspaper  now  published,  or 
hereafter  to  be  published  in  the  interests  of  the  Order,  in 
good  faith,  by  a  member  or  members  of  the  Order  in 
good  standing;  unless  such  publication  shall,  under  cover 
of  the  interest  of  the  Order  give  publicity  to  any  of  the 
signs,  emblems,  mottoes  or  other  secrets  of  the  Order, 
in  advertisement  or  otherwise,  for  the  benefit  of  individu- 
als or  companies,  or  for  the  advancement  of  their  own 
private  gain. 

(6.)  That  if  any  such  periodical  or  newspaper  shall 
offend  against  the  provisions  of  this  regulation,  it  shall 
be  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Sire  to  warn  said  periodical  or 
newspaper  to  discontinue  such  conduct,  and  in  the  event 
of  the  continuance  of  such  publications  or  advertisements, 
and  persistent  disobedience  to  said  warning,  it  shall  be  the 
duty  of  the  Grand  Sire  to  prefer  charges  against  the 
offending  party  or  parties  before  his  or  their  Subordinate 
Lodge,  and  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  such  Lodge  to  arraign 
and  try  the  party  or  parties  so  charged,  and  upon  con- 
viction of  the  offense,  to  suspend  or  expel  the  offender. 
(S.  J.  5143.  5183,  5199,  5247.) 

Nothing  herein  shall  be  construed  against,  or  inhibit, 
the  building  and  support  of  any  Temples,  Widows'  and 
Orphans'  Homes,  Asylums,  Schools  or  Halls  which  are 
used,  or  which  are  to  be  erected  and  maintained  within 
the  legitimate  purposes  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  (S.  J.  12677, 
12709.) 

1572.  All  associations  organized  for  the  sole  and  only 
purpose  of  co-operative  work  in  building  Odd  Fellows' 
Halls,  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Homes,  Temples  and 
Schools  to  be  maintained  and  used  by  and  for  the  benefit 
of  Odd  Fellows'  Lodges,  their  widows  and  orphans,  may 
use  the  name  of  the  Order  in  connection  with  enterprises 
under  the  control  of  local  jurisdictions,  but  the  use  of  the 
n::mes,  symbols,  initials  or  emblems  of  the  Order,  in  con- 


Emblems.  312 

nection  with  any  such  enterprise,  organized  for  individual 
profit  or  speculation  is  strictly  prohibited.  (S.  J.  13067, 
13155.) 

1573.  No  officer  or  member  of  a  Lodge  has  a  right 
as  such  officer  or  as  such  member  to  permit  the  use  of  his 
name  in  any  private  business  or  enterprise  in  that  ca- 
pacity.    (S.  J.  XX,  p.  555,  987,  1004.) 

1574.  The  use  of  the  words  "Odd  Fellows"  is  a  use 
of  the  "name"  of  the  Order  within  the  meaning  of  the 
laws  forbidding  the  use  of  such  name.  (S.  J.  15043,  15085; 
S.  J.  XIX,  p.  38,  365,  394.) 

1575.  It  is  illegal  to  use  the  name  or  emblems  of  the 
I.  O.  O.  F.  in  the  transaction  of  business  other  than  that 
directly  pertaining  to  that  of  the  order.  (S.  J.  11893, 
12192,  12276.) 

The  use  of  the  name,  symbols,  initials  or  emblems 
of  the  Order  in  connection  with  an  enterprise  known  as 
an  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  or  Building  Association  limiting 
its  membership  to  members  of  the  Order  or  limiting  its 
management  to  membership  in  the  Order  is  illegal.  (S.  J. 
12677,  12709.) 

1576.  An  association  incorporated  under  the  name 
of  "Odd  Fellows'  Building  Association,  Ltd.,"  organized 
for  the  purpose  of  providing  ways  and  means  for  the 
profitable  investment  of  funds  in  the  purchase  of  land  and 
the  erection  and  maintenance  thereon  of  an  Odd  Fellows' 
Hall,  and  not  limiting  its  membership  to  the  Order,  is 
illegal.     (S.  J.   12786,  13066,   13155.) 

1577.  It  is  illegal  to  form  an  incorporated  society 
under  the  name  of  "Odd  Fellows'  Building  Association" 
for  the  purpose  of  erecting  (as  an  investment)  an  Odd 
Fellows'  Building,  without  first  obtaining  consent  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  and  strictly  complying  with  the  former  laws 
of  the  S.  G.  L.  regarding  insurance  societies.  (S.  J.  12354, 
13165,  13196.) 

1578.  It  is  illegal  to  organize  a  savings  bank,  officered 
and  managed  by  members  of  the  Order,  using  the  name 
of  the  Order  or  its  emblems.     (S.  J.  13619,  13680.) 

1579.  It  is  illegal  to  circulate  a  testimonial  for  the 
cure  of  the  liquor  habit,  the  same  being  printed  as  a  cir- 


313  Endowment. 


cular   letter   bearing   the    letter    head    of   the    Lodge    with 
the  emblems  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  39,  365,  394.) 

1580.  A  band  has  no  right  to  use  the  name  of  the 
Patriarchs  Militant,  and  if  the  persons  composing  the 
band  are  members  of  the  Order,  charges  may  be  brought 
against  them  in  their  Lodges.     (S.  J.  15213,  15534,  15584.) 

1581.  The  organization  of  a  club  having  no  other 
purpose  than  to  be  social  in  its  character,  composed  of 
members  of  the  Order  only,  and  using  no  emblems  or 
work  of  the  Order,  and  not  paying  benefits,  and  not 
claiming  to  be  a  part  of  Odd  Fellowship,  is  not  a  violation 
of  the  law.     (S.  J.  XXL  p.  541,  752,  820.) 

1582.  The  name  of  the  Order  cannot  be  used  in  con- 
nection with  the  organization  of  an  Odd  Fellows'  Bowling 
League  to  be  composed  of  teams  to  be  selected  by  the 
various  Lodges.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  546,  752,  820.) 

1583.  It  is  not  a  violation  of  the  law  for  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  to  arrange  to  serve  meals  at  a  State  Fair,  and  to 
display  at  the  place  where  such  meals  are  served  a  sign 

as   follows:     "Rebekah    Lodge,   No ,   I.   O.   O.   F., 

Lunch   Stand,"  unless   by   so   doing  the   Lodge   funds   are 
used  or  jeopardized.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  443,  675,  709.) 

ENDOWMENT: 

1584.  Grand  Jurisdictions  possess  the  right  to  estab- 
lish widows'  and  orphans'  endowments,  provided  they  are 
founded  on  basis  of  voluntary  contributions  by  those 
members  of  the  Order  who  may  form  in  the  several 
jurisdictions  an  Auxiliary  Association  for  such  purpose, 
but  it  is  against  the  organic  law  of  the  Order  to  make 
forced  assessments  for  any  such  object.     (S.  J.  7363,  7450.) 

1585.  A  Grand  Jurisdiction  cannot  enforce  upon  the 
whole  or  any  part  of  the  Lodges  in  its  jurisdiction  an  en- 
dowment scheme,  although  a  majority  of  the  Lodges  in 
the  jurisdiction  vote  therefor.  (S.  J.  8534,  8701,  8767, 
14899,  14926.) 

1586.  The  funds  collected  in  accordance  with  law 
are  trust  funds,  and  can  be  applied  only  to  the  objects 
for  which  they  were  collected,  and  used  for  such  purposes 
as  are  contemplated  by  the  laws  of  the  Order.  (S.  J. 
11720,  11769.) 


Endowment.  314 


1587.  All  investments  of  the  Endowment  Funds  must 
be  paid  by  regular  Grand  Lodge  warrant,  signed  by  the 
Grand  Master,  and  counter-signed  by  the  Grand  Secre- 
tary.   (J.  1901,  p.  45,  268,  289.) 

1588.  The  Grand  Lodge  has  provided  for  the  accu- 
mulation and  the  investment  of  Endowment  Funds  for 
the  Old  Folks'  Home  and  for  the  Orphans'  Home.  These 
funds  are  created  by  voluntary  gifts  from  the  members 
and  friends  of  the  Order,  from  Lodges  and  from  other 
organizations.  The  income  derived  from  the  investment 
of  these  funds  may  alone  be  used  to  support  and  maintain 
the  two  Homes.  Under  no  circumstances  may  the  prin- 
cipal be  used  or  reduced  for  any  purpose.  (J.  1898,  p.  271.) 
It  is  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Secretary  to  provide  a  well- 
bound  book  in  which  he  is  to  keep  an  account  of  every 
amount  donated.  (J.  1899,  p.  241,  258.)  The  management 
and  investment  of  these  funds  has  been  left  to  the  control 
of  an  Endowment  Fund  Committee  consisting  of  three 
members.  (J.  1906,  p.  357,  359;  J.  1907,  p.  352,  353,  366.) 
The  same  authority  prescribes  the  character  of  invest- 
ments that  the  Endowment  Fund  Committee  may  make. 

FUNERALS: 

1589.  A  member  who  dies  pending  his  trial,  but  be- 
fore final  judgment,  is  entitled  to  be  buried  with  funeral 
honors.     (S.  J.  7762,  7832.) 

1590.  The  funeral  services  adopted  by  the  S.  G.  L. 
must  be  used  to  the  exclusion  of  all  others.  (S.  J.  XXI, 
p.  524,  754,  821,  741,  828,  875.)  But  it  is  permissible  to 
use  the  ceremony  adopted  at  the  session  of  1874  in  lieu 
of  the  one  adopted  at  the  session  of  1903,  if  the  family  of 
the  deceased  so  desires.  (S.  J.  XXIII,  p.  213,  289,  308.) 
The  regalia  of  the  Order  may  be  worn  at  a  funeral  with- 
out a  special  dispensation.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  355.) 

1591.  It  is  admissible  for  Odd  Fellows  to  appear  in 
regalia  at  the  funeral  of  a  daughter  of  Rebekah,  in  case 
they  first  obtain  permission  to  do  so  from  the  proper 
Grand  Oflficers  of  the  jurisdiction.     (S.  J.  6007,  6235,  6314.) 

1592.  The  propriety  of  extending  funeral  honors  to 
a  brother  in  arrears,  but  against  whom  no  charges  for 
unworthy  conduct  are  pending  at  the  time  of  his  death, 
is  a  matter  for  local  legislation.     (S.  J.  2780,  2818.) 

1593.  A  Lodge  cannot  in  a  body  as  a  Lodge  attend 


315  Funerals. 

the  funeral  of  a  deceased  Ancient  Odd  Fellow  and  conduct 
the  services  according  to  the  Ritual.  (S.  J.  6752,  6977, 
7051.) 

1594.  Nor  can  the  funeral  service  of  the  Order  be 
performed  over  the  body  of  one  who  is  not  a  member. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  517,  827,  873.)  Nor  can  one  who  has  been 
lawfully  suspended  from  membership  receive  the  funeral 
honors.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  26,  361,  371,  372.)  A  dropped  mem- 
ber is  not  entitled  to  burial  as  an  Odd  Fellow,  nor  to  any 
honors  as  a  member.     (J.  V,  p.  137,  202,  230.) 

1595.  It  is  the  duty  of  every  Lodge  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. 
to  see  that  the  bodies  of  its  members  who  die  are  de- 
cently and  properly  buried;  and  the  members  of  the  Lodge 
must  be  required  to  turn  out  at  funerals,  without  regard 
to  the  pecuniary  standing  of  such  members  at  the  time 
of  death.  And,  if  the  By-Laws  so  provide,  the  mem- 
bers not  attending  the  funeral  ought  to  be  fined.  The 
only  class  of  persons  who  have  connection  with  the 
Lodge  that  are  excluded  from  the  privileges  of  burial  by 
it  are  members  suspended  for  cause,  and  the  so-called 
dropped  members.  (J.  IV,  p.  447,  448;  as  modified  by 
J.  VII,  p.  933,  934.) 

1596.  It  is  not  imperative  upon  the  Noble  Grand  to 
open  and  close  the  Lodge  in  regular  form  when  it  is 
called  to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  brother.  He  may  do  so 
or  not.  (S.  J.  7735,  7831.)  The  several  State  Grand 
Bodies  may  determine  whether  the  dead  can  be  buried 
by  a  committee  or  by  the  whole  Lodge.  The  Lodge  can- 
not in  a  body  as  a  Lodge  attend  the  funeral  of  a  de- 
ceased "Ancient  Odd  Fellow"  and  conduct  the  services 
according  to  the  Ritual  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  6752,  6976, 
7051.) 

1597.  Lodges  may,  by  their  By-Law,  provide  for  the 
burial  of  a  member  by  a  committee  or  portion  of  the 
Lodge.     (J.  VII.  p.  116.) 

1598.  The  need  of  attending  to  one's  ordinary  busi- 
ness is  not  sufficient  excuse  for  non-attendance  to  the 
funeral  of  a  member.     (W-1078a.) 

1599.  What  share  may  be  taken  by  a  Lodge,  an  En- 
campment  or   a   Canton,   in   the   funeral    exercises    of   the 


Funerals.  316 

burial  of  an  Odd  Fellow,  when  other  secular  organiza- 
tions of  which  he  may  have  been  a  member  are  to  per- 
form exercises  before,  with,  or  after  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  is  a 
matter  exclusively  under  the  control  of  the  State  Grand 
Bodies.     (S.  J.  11010,  11033.) 

1600.  Members  of  a  Lodge  who  have  been  summoned 
to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  brother,  are  liable  under  Lodge 
By-Laws  for  penalty  for  non-attendance,  provided  said 
members  appearing  in  the  ranks  of  another  organization 
shall  be  exempt  from  the  penalties  of  this  Section.  (J. 
Vn,  p.  749;  W-1078d.) 

160L  Where  a  Patriarchal  member  of  the  Order 
dies  suddenly,  without  expressing  his  preference  for  burial 
by  either  his  Encampment  or  Lodge,  and  where  both 
bodies  desire  to  officiate  at  the  funeral,  the  matter  shall 
be  determined  by  the  express  wish  of  the  widow  (should 
there  be  one)  or  nearest  relatives.  (S.  J.  11893,  12217, 
12281.) 

1602.  In  all  cases  funeral  ceremonies  shall  be  con- 
ducted by  the  Subordinate  Lodge,  except  that  in  conduct- 
ing the  funeral  ceremony  of  a  deceased  brother,  a  mem- 
ber in  good  standing  in  both  the  Subordinate  Lodge  and 
Subordinate  Encampment,  the  Lodge  shall  take  prece- 
dence over  the  Encampment  (except  where  the  deceased 
was  a  Grand  Officer,  etc.)  unless  by  the  previously  ex- 
pressed desire  of  the  deceased,  his  widow  or  near  relative, 
the  Encampment  should  be  designated  to  take  charge  of 
his  remains  for  burial;  whereupon,  under  the  delegated 
power  from  the  party  having  legal  charge  of  the  body, 
the  Encampment  shall  take  precedence.  (S.  J.  11896, 
12217,  12281.) 

1603.  A  special  form  for  funeral  ceremony  for  the 
use  of  Rebekah  Lodges  was  adopted  in  1887,  the  same  as 
repeated  in  the  Journal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois 
for  that  year.     (S.  J.  10983,  11026;  J.  VIII,  p.  231.) 

1604.  The  ordinary  mourning  badge  to  be  worn  by 
brothers  in  memory  of  a  deceased  brother,  shall  be  a 
strip  of  black  crepe,  passed  through  one  button-hole  only 
of  the  left  lapel  of  the  coat,  and  tied  with  a  narrow  rib- 
bon of  the  color  of  the  highest  degree  to  which  the 
bearer  may  have  attained.     (T-2295.) 


317  Relief. 

GENERAL  LAWS: 

1605.  General  Laws  enacted  by  the  S.  G.  L.  go  into 
efifect  on  the  first  day  of  January  after  the  adjournment 
of  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  17,  284,  314.) 

GENERAL  AND  SPECIAL  RELIEF: 

1606.  A  Lodge  is  not  responsible  for  money  fraudu- 
lently obtained  by  one  of  its  members  from  another 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  9358,  9447.) 

1607.  The  S.  G.  L.  commends  the  great  work  of  the 
General  Relief  Associations,  instituted  by  members  of  this 
Order,  to  the  fostering  care  of  the  several  State  Grand 
Jurisdictions,  and  recommends  such  action  as  may  induce 
each  jurisdiction  to  make  ample  provision  for  compensat- 
ing other  jurisdictions  for  expenses  paid  and  costs  incurred 
in  the  relief  of  brothers  in  distress,  who  claim  the  same 
under  a  visiting  card,  as  brothers  in  good  standing.  (S. 
J.  6198,  6222.) 

1608.  The  legislation  of  1899  does  not  authorize  a 
General  Relief  Committee  to  levy,  and  collect,  special 
assessments  upon  the  Lodges.  A  Lodge  cannot  be  com- 
pelled to  join  such  a  General  Relief  Committee  against  its 
wish;  and,  having  joined  such  a  committee,  it  may  with- 
draw therefrom  at  its  pleasure.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  28,  284, 
314.) 

1609.  When  any  Lodge  or  Lodge  members  in  any 
locality  shall  suffer,  and  shall  ask  and  obtain  permission 
to  solicit  aid  in  other  than  the  jurisdiction  where  they 
reside,  such  aid  so  obtained,  if  a  surplus  above  actual 
need,  should  be  returned  to  those  contributing  it,  and  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  jurisdiction  shall  see  that  it  is  proper- 
ly done.     (S.  J.  14174,  14577,  14609.) 

1610.  In  the  Galveston  flood  case,  it  was  decided  that 
funds  returned  to  the  Grand  Lodges  should  not  be  re- 
turned by  them  to  tlie  Subordinate  Lodges  contributing 
the  same,  but  should  be  disposed  of  by  the  Grand  Lodges 
at  their  own  pleasure.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  717,  718,  988,  1004.) 

1611.  No  Lodge  or  Encampment  shall  entertain  any 
application  for  pecuniary  aid  or  assistance,  under  what- 
ever   scheme    it    may    be    presented,    unless    the    same    be 


Relief.  318 

authorized  by  the  Grand  Body,  or  its  principal  Grand 
Officer,  of  the  jurisdiction  in  which  such  aid  is  solicited, 
and  in  accordance  with  the  form  prescribed  for  such  pur- 
pose by  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  3953,  3987.) 

1612.  It  shall  be  unlawful  for  any  Grand  Master, 
Grand  Patriarch,  Grand  or  Subordinate  Lodge  or  En- 
campment, or  any  officer  or  member  thereof,  or  any  com- 
mittee, or  any  jurisdiction,  to  solicit  aid  or  relief  for  any 
purpose,  or  in  any  manner,  either  by  direct  request  for 
funds,  sale  of  tickets  or  chances,  or  by  any  scheme  what- 
ever, from  the  Lodges,  Encampments,  or  members,  of 
another  jurisdiction,  without  having  first  obtained  the 
consent  of  the  Grand  Master  of  such  other  jurisdiction, 
if  such  appeal  is  to  be  made  to  the  Lodges  or  members 
thereof,  or  of  the  Grand  Patriarch,  if  such  appeal  is  to  be 
made  to  Encampments,  or  Patriarchs  thereof.  Such  con- 
sent can  only  be  obtained  upon  proper  request  therefor, 
duly  made  by  the  Grand  Master,  or  Grand  Patriarch,  of 
the  soliciting  jurisdiction,  of  the  Grand  Master,  or  Grand 
Patriarch,  of  the  solicited  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  15056,  15057, 
15090,  15599,  15632.) 

1613.  A  Grand  Body  may  grant  permission  to  one 
of  its  Subordinates  to  solicit  contributions  from  its  other 
Subordinates  for  the  relief  of  individual  members.  (S.  J. 
11299,  11312.) 

1614.  It  is  illegal  to  allow  a  call  for  aid  from  a 
Lodge  to  assist  those  who  are  suffering  from  a  foreign 
war  and  who  are  not  members  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  14686, 
14948,  15019.) 

1615.  Permission  has  been  granted  to  the  "Illinois 
Odd  Fellows'  League"  to  carry  on  its  work  in  the  State 
of  Illinois,  to  receive  voluntary  contributions  from  the 
Lodges  of  this  jurisdiction,  provided  it  shall  not  bind  the 
Grand  Lodge  or  any  of  the  Subordinate  Lodges  in  any 
manner.  The  character  of  work  authorized  to  be  done 
by  said  League  is  described  in  the  preamble  and  resolution 
granting  this  permission.     (J-   1903,  p.  245,  273,  282.) 

1616.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  not  enact  a  law  establish- 
ing Boards  of  Relief  and  giving  such  Boards  power  to 
compel  all  Lodges  in  a  city  or  town  to  join  said  Board, 


319  Homes. 

and  to  compel  such  Lodges  to  pay  a  per  capita  assess- 
ment thereto.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  543,  752,  820.) 
HOMES: 

1617.  Where  the  Grand  Lodge  of  a  jurisdiction  im- 
posed a  capitation  tax  of  two  cents  per  member  and 
directed  it  to  be  set  apart  to  collect  a  fund  for  the  estab- 
lishment of  an  Orphan  Asylum  under  the  control  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  also  received  donations  from  Lodges 
and  individuals  to  said  fund,  it  is  held  that  such  funds  are 
trust  funds,  donated  and  set  apart  for  a  specified  purpose, 
and  can  not  afterwards  be  merged  in  the  general  fund 
and  thus  diverted  from  the  purpose  for  which  the  fund 
was  originally  created.     (S.  J.  5161,  5216.) 

1618.  The  fact  that  a  jurisdiction  has  a  Home  for 
aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows  does  not  authorize  a 
Grand  Lodge  to  expend  its  funds  for  the  support  of  such 
brother  residing  outside  its  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  XX,  p. 
883,  936,  937.) 

1619.  Grand  Bodies  are  permitted  to  adopt  such  laws 
for  the  purpose  of  establishing  and  maintaining  Homes 
for  aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows,  and  widows  of  de- 
ceased members  of  the  Order;  and  Homes  for  the  care, 
protection  and  education  of  orphans  of  deceased  Odd 
Fellows,  as  they  may  determine  to  be  consistent  with  the 
welfare  of  the  Order  in  their  respective  jurisdictions.  (S. 
J.  13016,  13120,  13161.) 

1620.  Prior  to  1892,  Grand  Bodies  were  not  author- 
ized to  assess  their  Subordinates  to  establish  and  main- 
tain a  Home  for  widows  and  orphans  of  deceased  Odd 
Fellows,  or  for  the  purpose  of  erecting  and  maintaining 
Homes  for  aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows.  (S.  J.  10141, 
10185,  10497,  10644,  10986,  11027.)  But  by  the  legislation 
of  1892  (S.  J.  13016,  13120,  13161)  Grand  Bodies  were  au- 
thorized and  empowered  to  assess  their  Subordinates  for 
such  purposes.     (S.  J.  14156;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  513,  827,  873.) 

By  the  DeBoissiere  case,  it  was  decided  that  it  was 
not  essential  that  the  affairs  of  the  Home  should  be  placed 
absolutely  under  the  control  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  in  order 
to  authorize  it  to  levy  assessments  for  the  purpose  of  its 
maintenance.     (S.  J.  14156.) 

1621.  The  Grand  Lodge  has  the  legal  right  and  full 
power    to    make    reasonable    and    necessary    assessments 


Homes.  320 

upon  its  Subordinates  to  provide  and  maintain  such 
Homes,  but  this  power  must  be  exercised  with  caution 
and  deliberation.     (S.  J.  14115,  14150.) 

1622.  The  legislation  of  the  S.  G.  L.  authorizing  the 
establishment  of  Homes,  confers  upon  the  Grand  Lodge 
power  to  assess  Subordinate  Lodges  by  per  capita  tax 
or  any  other  form  of  tax  for  the  establishment  and  main- 
tenance of  such  Homes.  (S.  J.  14156;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  513, 
827,  873.) 

1623.  A  conveyance  of  property  in  trust  for  the 
beneht  of  a  corporation  known  as  "The  DeBoissiere  Odd 
Fellows'  Orphans'  Home  and  Industrial  School  of  Kan- 
sas," the  charter  of  the  corporation  showing  its  purpose 
to  be  to  provide  a  Home  for  the  orphans  of  deceased 
Odd  Fellows,  etc.,  and  to  have  among  its  places  of  busi- 
ness the  place  and  home  of  the  Annual  Sessions  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  this  State,  and  where  the  property  was 
accepted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State,  under  the 
terms  of  such  conveyance:  Held,  that  a  Home  is  created 
which  can  be  maintained  by  a  per  capita  tax  levied  by 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State.  It  is  not  essential  that 
the  affairs  of  the  Home  shall  be  placed  absolutely  under 
the  control  of  the  said  Grand  Lodge.  (S.  J.  14156;  but 
see  how  far  this  decision  may  be  modified  or  overruled  by 
the  next  one  following.) 

1624.  A  Grand  Lodge  may  not  authorize  the  organ- 
ization of  a  corporation  to  own  and  conduct  a  Home  for 
Odd  Fellows,  their  children  and  widows  and  orphans,  and 
under  the  laws  of  the  State  over  which  the  Grand  Lodge 
has  not  full  control,  nor  can  the  Grand  Lodge  levy  a  tax 
upon  its  Subordinates  for  the  maintenance  of  a  Home 
existing  under  such  corporation.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  45,  46,  47, 
360,  371.) 

1625.  The  last  named  decision  (§  1624)  is  not  to  be 
construed  as  declaring  that  a  Grand  Lodge  has  no  right 
to  create  a  benevolent  corporation  under  state  laws  for 
the  care  of  widows  and  orphans  of  Odd  Fellows  and  aged 
and  indigent  Odd  Fellows,  provided  the  corporation  is 
under  the  control  of  Trustees  who  are  members  of  and 
elected  by  the  Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  542,  988,  10O4.) 

1626.  When  any  Subordinate  Grand  Lodge  shall  de- 
termine  to   establish   a   Home   or   Homes,   it   may  donate 


321  Homes. 

only  surplus   funds  which  it  is  possessed  of  for  that   pur- 
pose.    (S.  J.  13101,  13158.) 

1627.  The  Grand  Lodge,  by  appropriate  legislation, 
may  provide  that  any  member  of  the  Order  who  now  is, 
or  may  hereafter  become,  an  inmate  of  any  Home  for 
aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows,  shall  thereby  relinquish 
all  claims  for  weekly  benefits  from  such  member's  Lodge, 
during  the  time  he  shall  continue  to  be  an  inmate 
of  such  Home,  and  such  Home  shall  continue  to  receive 
in  its  workings  and  operations,  the  sanction  and  approval 
of  the  Grand  Lodge.  During  the  time  or  times  that  any 
Lodge  shall  be  freed  from  the  liability  to  pay  weekly 
benefits  to  any  of  its  members  who  may  be  inmates  of 
such  Home,  because  of  any  such  relinquishment  of  weekly 
benefits,  no  weekly  dues  shall  accrue  against  any  such 
member,  but  he  shall  remain  in  good  standing  in  every 
respect  and  particular  without  payment  of  weekly  dues. 
(S.  J.  11833.  13041,  13117,  13161;  See  Art.  I,  Old  Folks' 
Home   By-Laws.) 

1628.  A  brother  who  pays  his  dues  is  entitled  to  sick 
benefits,  notwithstanding  he  is  an  inmate  of  a  Home,  but 
in  such  case  the  benefits  should  be  paid  to  the  Home,  and 
not  to  the  brother.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  873,  915.) 

1629.  An  inmate  of  the  Home  becoining  insane  and 
being  transferred  to  a  hospital  for  the  insane,  must  be 
returned  to  the  Home,  if  his  mental  condition  is  restored. 
The  Home  is  not  liable  for  maintenance  of  one  of  its 
inmates  while  such  inmate  is  in  a  hospital  for  the  insane. 
S.  J.  XX,  p.  27,  387,  413.) 

1630.  The  Grand  Lodge  is  authorized  to  legislate  so 
as  to  permit  Lodges  to  issue  orders  for  passwords  to  in- 
mates of  the  Home  who  are  entitled  to  such  passwords. 
(S.  J.  XX,  p.  383,  402,  416.) 

1631.  The  Grand  Lodge  authorizes  the  formation 
and  organization  of  Old  Folks'  Home  Associations  in  the 
respective  cities,  towns  and  villages  in  the  State  of  Illinois 
where  Odd  Fellows'  and  Rebekah  Lodges  exist,  for  the 
purpose  of  soliciting  subscriptions  or  cash  donations  for 
the  said  Home  for  aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows,  or  the 
said  Associations  may  adopt  such  other  mode  of  raising 
funds  as  may  seem  best  to  them,  by  public  entertainments 


Homes.  322 

or  other  legal  enterprises.  These  Associations  shall  be 
composed  of  Odd  Fellows  and  Sister  Rebekahs  in  good 
standing,  and  only  such  will  be  eligible  to  membership. 
But  neither  the  Grand  Lodge  nor  any  Subordinate  Lodge 
shall  incur  or  be  held  liable  for  any  expense  incurred  by 
any  of  such  Associations.     (J.  1897,  p.  380.) 

1632.  The  Advisory  Boards  of  the  Orphans'  Home 
and  of  the  Old  Folks'  Home  are  appointed  by  the  Grand 
Master.     (J.  1899,  p.  212,  256.) 

1633.  It  is  recommended  by  the  Grand  Lodge  that 
in  Lodges  the  first  meeting  night  in  the  month  of  May 
be  set  apart  as  "Old  Folks'  Home"  night,  and  the  first 
meeting  night  in  the  month  of  November  be  set  apart 
as  "Orphans'  Home"  night.     (J.  1899,  p.  15,  231,  232,  250.) 

1634.  The  Orphans'  Home  Board  and  the  Old  Folks' 
Home  Board  are  instructed  to  make  no  contracts  pledging 
the  credit  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  except  for  maintenance 
and  ordinary  repairs,  until  directed  to  do' so  by  the  Grand 
Lodge.     (J.  1900,  p.  281.) 

1635.  A  Lodge  has  no  authority  to  assess  its  mem- 
bers for  our  Homes,  but  may,  from  time  to  time,  make 
reasonable  donations  to  the  maintenance  of  either  Home 
from  the  general  fund.     (J.  1901,  p.  9,  319.) 

1636.  The  meetings  of  the  directors  of  the  Orphans' 
Home  and  the  Trustees  of  the  Old  Folks'  Home  shall  be 
held  monthly.     (J.  1902,  p.  293.) 

1637.  li  at  any  time  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  the 
Old  Folks'  Home  or  the  Directors  of  the  Orphans'  Home 
shall  deem  it  necessary  to  raise  an  amount  in  excess  of 
five  thousand  dollars  for  permanent  improvements,  notice 
thereof  shall  be  given  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  notice 
shall  also  be  given  to  the  Subordinate  Lodges  by  the 
Grand  Secretary,  thirty  days  prior  to  the  session  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  following.     (J.  1902,  p.  307.) 

1638.  Non-beneficial  members,  otherwise  qualified, 
are  eligible  to  membership  in  the  Old  Folks'  Home  upon 
like  terms  and  conditions  as  other  members.  (J.  1902, 
p.  307.) 

1639.  The  Board  of  Trustees  of  the  Old  Folks'  Home 
is  authorized  to  appoint  an  Assistant  Secretary,  and  to 
take  such  other  measures  as  may  be  necessary  to  secure 


323 


Homes. 


prompt  answers  to  all  communications  sent  to  the  Home, 
and  prevent  all  unnecessary  delay  in  the  considerations 
of  applications,  for  admission  to  the  Home.  (J.  1902, 
p.  308.) 

1640.  The  Grand  Master  has  the  right,  for  sufficient 
cause,  to  remove  any  member  of  the  Old  Folks'  Home 
Board  or  the  Orphans'  Home  Board  who  is  derelict  in 
the  performance  of  his  duties.  (J.  1902,  p.  310,  311,  317; 
J.  1905,  p.  329,  337.) 

1641.  In  case  of  the  death  of  any  member  of  the  Old 
Folks'  Home,  notice  must  be  immediately  given  his  or  her 
Lodge  and  relatives  by  telegraph,  requesting  instructions 
as  to  the  disposition  of  the  body,  and  the  body  shall  be 
embalmed  and  held  at  least  two  days  before  burial;  and 
if  the  relatives  or  friends  desire  to  furnish  a  casket  and 
undertaker,  they  shall  have  that  privilege,  on  their  or  the 
Lodge's  request.     (J.   1903,  p.  219.) 

1642.  The  Grand  Master  may,  in  his  discretion,  re- 
quire bonds  from  such  persons  as  are  charged  with  the 
collection  and  disbursement  of  Grand  Lodge  moneys  for 
the  use  of  the  Orphans'  and  the  Old  Folks'  Homes.  (J. 
1903,  p.  295.)  And  the  Secretary  of  the  Orphans'  Home 
Board  is  required  to  give  bond  in  the  sum  of  $2000.00, 
signed  by  some  Surety  Company  licensed  to  do  business 
in  Illinois,  and  in  the  business  of  furnishing  indemnity 
bonds,  the  expense  of  such  bond  to  be  defrayed  by  the 
Grand  Lodge;  which  bond,  when  so  executed,  shall  be 
approved  by  the  Grand  Master,  and  shall  be  conditioned 
for  the  faithful  discharge  of  his  duties,  and  for  the  de- 
livery of  all  moneys,  papers,  books,  records  and  other 
property  appertaining  to  his  office,  whole  and  undefaced, 
to  his  successor  in  office.     (J.  1906,  p.  360.) 

1643.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  not  take  cognizance  of 
any  resolution  relative  to  an  excursion  to  either  of  the 
Homes,  except  it  be  one  recommending  that  such  excur- 
sion or  excursions  be  deferred  until  the  close  of  the 
session  of  the  Grand  Lodge.     (J.  1904,  p.  259,  260.) 

1644.  Any  resolutions  or  motions  which  seek  to  dis- 
credit either  of  the  Homes,  or  the  management  thereof, 
shall  be  accompanied  by  written  evidence  to  substantiate 
the  same,  which  evidence  shall  become  a  part  of  the 
resolution  or  motion.     (J.  1904,  p.  263,  323.) 


Homes.  324 

1645.  The  legislation  of  1892  was  not  only  for  the 
assistance  of  aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows  and  their 
widows,  but  also  for  the  purpose  of  protecting,  supporting 
and  educating  the  orphans  of  our  Order,  and,  as  such, 
was  an  illustration  of  organized  benevolence  of  the  broad- 
est, truest  character.  That  it  was  so  hailed  and  accepted 
by  the  brotherhood  at  large,  is  amply  proven  by  the  en- 
actment of  laws  looking  to  the  establishment  and  main- 
tenance of  Homes,  such  as  contemplated  in  said  legisla- 
tion, under  which  laws  vast  property  rights  have  become 
vested  and  scores  of  the  wards  of  this  Order  are  now 
being  protected  and  educated.  The  establishment  of  such 
Homes  has  had  a  wide  influence  upon  the  unintiated  in 
causing  inquiry  and  investigation  to  be  made  into  the 
purpose  of  an  Order  which  works  along  to  the  lines  of 
the  most  practical  benevolence.  (S.  J.  13551,  13552,  13671; 
J.  IX,  p.  609.) 

1646.  State  Grand  Bodies  may  establish  and  main- 
tian  Homes  for  aged  and  indigent  Odd  Fellows,  for 
widows  of  deceased  members  and  for  orphans  of  de- 
ceased Odd  Fellows,  and  when  said  jurisdiction  has  de- 
termined the  necessity  for  the  assistance  of  such  Home 
or  Homes,  it  is  then  left  to  that  jurisdiction  to  determine 
the  manner  of  establishing  and  means  for  maintaining 
the  same.  The  power  to  establish  and  maintain,  neces- 
sarily implies  the  power  to  raise  money  by  the  usual  and 
ordinary  methods  for  that  purpose  as  'by  per  capita  or 
other  form  of  tax.     (S.  J.  14156,  14160,  14161.) 

1647.  The  support  of  the  widows  and  the  education 
and  maintenance  of  the  orphans  of  deceased  Odd  Fellows 
who  died  in  good  standing,  are  not  acts  of  "charity,"  but 
legal  obligations.  Such  is  the  law  of  the  Order — one  of 
the  most  fundamental  laws  known  to  us.  (S.  J.  14115, 
14150.) 

1648.  State  Grand  Bodies  have  the  legal  right  and 
full  power  to  make  reasonable  and  necessary  assessments 
upon  their  Subordinates  to  provide  and  maintain  Homes 
for  such  dependents,  but  this  is  a  power  in  the  exercise 
of  which  much  caution  and  deliberation  should  character- 
ize the  action  of  Grand  Bodies.     (S.  J.   14115,   14150. 

1649.  Grand  Jurisdictions  shall  require  the  Directors 
or  Managers  of  Orphans'  Homes  or  other  Homes  of  the 


325  Homes. 

Order  within  their  boundaries,  and  under  their  control, 
to  make  annual  reports,  showing  the  name,  location,  date 
of  organization,  and  object  of  such  Homes.  Also  a  de- 
scription of  their  properties,  cost,  present  value,  character 
of  title;  Board  of  Management,  and  how  created;  cost  of 
maintenance,  and  how  provided;  number  of  children  and 
others  cared  for;  and  the  annual  cost  per  capita,  together 
with  such  additional  statements  as  said  Directors  or 
Managers  may  be  able  to  give,  to  the  end  that  the  in- 
formation, in  regard  to  such  Homes,  may  be  as  complete 
as  possible.     (S.  J.  14589,  14610.) 

1650.  The  Orphans'  Home,  located  at  Lincoln,  Illi- 
nois, was  established  and  built  by  a  private  corporation. 
The  incorporators  were  Lizzie  L.  Morrison,  Maria  L. 
Spalding,  Jennie  A.  Tichnor  and  Eva  R.  Withey.  The 
first  Board  of  Directors  selected  to  control  and  maintain 
the  corporation  for  its  first  year  of  existence  consisted 
of  the  following  named  persons:  Lizzie  L.  Morrison, 
Maria  L.  Spalding,  Jennie  A.  Tichnor,  Eva  R.  Withey, 
M.  R.  Cunningham,  Anna  E.  Moreland,  Mathilda  Griebel, 
Sarah  R.  Crocker,  Mary  A.  Funk,  Roxy  A.  Bradley,  Al- 
fred Orendorfif,  Alonzo  Ellwood,  William  H.  Crocker, 
E.  S.  Conway,  J.  Otis  Humphrey,  Henry  C.  Feltman,  and 
William  H.  Underwood.  The  name  of  the  corporation 
was  "Odd  Fellows'  Orphans'  Home."  The  object  for 
which  it  was  established  was  to  maintain  a  Home  for  the 
children  of  deceased  Odd  Fellows.  The  management  of 
the  corporation  was  vested  in  a  Board  of  Directors  who 
were  elected  by  the  Convention  of  the  Degree  Lodges 
of  the  Daughters  of  Rebekah  of  Illinois.  (Book  32,  Cor- 
poration Records,  Recorder's  Ofifice  Cook  County,  Illi- 
nois, p.  41,  42,  43.) 

The  Home  was  afterward  turned  over  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  by  the  corporation  which  organized  and  built  it. 
The  action  of  the  Grand  Lodge  assuming  control  will  be 
found  in  Journal  IX. 

Resolved,  That  for  the  purpose  of  more  fully  secur- 
ing the  objects  and  purposes  of  the  Home  in  the  care  of 
deceased  brother's  wives  and  in  the  care  of  our  aged  and 
indigent  members  and  their  widows,  the  Grand  Lodge 
I.  O.  O.  F.,  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  does  accept  the  Home 
and  provide  for  the  support  and  management  of  the  same. 


Homes.  326 

This  resolution  being  put  upon  its  passage,  was 
adopted  on  roll  call  by  vote  of  2997  to  910.     (J.  IX,  p.  365.) 

A  special  committee  was  appointed  to  present  a  plan 
for  the  management  of  the  Orphans'  Home,  which  made 
the  following  recommendations: 

First.  That  the  Grand  Lodge  vest  the  control  and 
management  of  said  institution  in  a  Board  of  Directors 
of  five  members,  to  be  appointed  by  the  Grand  Master 
from  this  Grand  Lodge.  One  for  the  period  of  one  year, 
one  for  two  years,  one  for  three  years,  one  for  four  years, 
and  one  for  five  years;  and  annually  hereafter  the  Grand 
Master  shall  appoint  one  member  of  said  Board  to  serve 
for  the  term  of  five  years.  All  vacancies  in  said  Board, 
occasioned  by  death,  resignation,  or  otherwise,  shall  be 
filled  by  appointment  of  the   Grand  Master. 

Second.  The  State  Convention  of  Daughters  of  Re- 
bekah  shall  be  invited  to  appoint  an  Orphans'  Home  Com- 
mittee of  five  members,  who  shall  be  sisters  of  Rebekah; 
and  such  committee  shall  meet  with  the  Board  of  Direc- 
tors at  its  semi-annual  and  annual  meetings  for  the  pur- 
pose of  consultation  and  advice  as  to  the  matters  relating 
to  said  institution. 

NOTE. — This  second  recommendation  has  been  superseded  by 
legislation  authorizinz  the  appointment  of  an  Advisory  Board  by  the 
Grand  Master. —  (Editor.) 

Third.  Of  the  moneys  which  this  Grand  Lodge  shall, 
from  time  to  time,  appropriate  for  the  benefit  of  the  Odd 
Fellows'  Orphans'  Home,  the  Grand  Secretary  is  hereby 
authorized  to  draw  his  warrant  upon  the  Grand  Treasurer 
for  the  purpose  of  the  Home  upon  vouchers  certified  by 
the  Chairman  of  the  Board  of  Directors,  and  attested  by 
its  Secretary,  and  approved  by  the  Grand  Master. 

Fourth.  Rules  and  Regulations  for  the  management 
of  said  Home  shall  be  adopted  by  said  Board,  and  shall 
be  effective  until  repealed  or  amended  by  this  Grand 
Lodge. 

Fifth.  When  the  Board  of  Directors  shall  make  an- 
nual report  to  the  Grand  Master,  thirty  days  before  the 
meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  each  year,  of  the  condition 
of  said  Home  and  of  the  acts  and  doings  of  said  Board 
for  the  fiscal  year  ending  October  1st.  (J.  IX,  p.  389; 
amended  and  enlarged  by  §  1656  infra.) 


327 


Homes. 


1651.  The  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  of  the  Sub- 
ordinate Lodges  and  Encampments  is  stamped  as  a  trust 
fund,  for  the  use  and  benefit  of  the  widows  and  orphans 
whose  husbands  and  fathers  at  their  death  were  members 
in  good  standing  in  such  Lodge  or  Encampment;  and  it  is 
illegal  and  a  misapplication  of  such  funds  to  donate  or 
appropriate  said  funds,  or  any  part  thereof,  to  any  pur- 
pose whatever,  except  for  the  direct  and  individual  sup- 
port and  benefit  of  the  widows  and  orphans  who,  under 
the  law,  are  legitimate  charges  upon  such  Lodge  or  En- 
campment: Provided,  however,  nothing  herein  shall  pre- 
vent Subordinates,  who  may  have  placed  their  widows 
and  orphans  in  an  asylum  or  home,  from  using  their 
Widows'  anad  Orphans'  Fund  in  defraying  the  legitimate 
expenses  thereby  incurred.  And  the  several  Grand  Bodies 
are  instructed  to  see  that  this  law  is  observed  by  their 
Subordinates.     (S.  J.  10986,  11027.) 

1652.  All  Lodges  in  this  jurisdiction  who  have  a 
Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  may,  in  paying  their  capita- 
tion tax,  draw  from  the  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund  an 
amount  equal  in  ratio  to  the  percentage  of  funds  that  is 
apportioned  by  the  Grand  Lodge  for  the  support  of  the 
Orphans'  Home.  (J.  IX,  p.  998,  1006;  S.  J.  XXH,  p.  289, 
320,  327.) 

1653.  In  jurisdictions  where  the  Grand  Lodge  may 
decide  to  establish,  maintain  and  support  Homes  for  the 
dependent  widows,  or  the  maintenance  and  education  of 
the  orphans  of  deceased  Odd  Fellows,  such  Grand  Lodge 
may  permit  the  Subordinates  in  its  jurisdiction,  under 
reasonable  and  proper  restriction,  to  donate  or  loan  a 
portion  of  their  Widows'  and  Orphans'  Fund,  or  a  por- 
tion of  their  Lodge  fund,  to  said  Home;  provided  that 
where  Grand  Jurisdictions  grant  the  privilege  herein 
named  to  their  Subordinate  Lodges,  that  the  proposition 
in  any  such  Subordinate  Lodge  shall  lie  over  one  week 
before  final  action.     (S.  J.  12664,  12705.) 

1654.  In  order  to  gain  admittance  for  children  to  the 
Home,  the  applicant  must  apply  to  the  Superintendent  or 
the  Secretary  of  the  Board  for  a  blank  application,  which 
must  be  filled  up  and  signed  by  the  guardian,  and  must 
be  certified  to  by  the  Lodge  to  which  the  father  be- 
longed, under  its  seal.     On  the  return  of  the  application 


Homes.  328 

properly  tilled  up  and  certified  to,  it  will  be  presented  to 
the  Board  of  Directors  for  their  consideration,  and  the 
applicant  will  be  informed  of  the  action  taken.  Each 
child  should  at  least  be  provided  with  one  change  of 
clothing.     (J.  IX,  p.  833.) 

1655.  All  moneys  paid  out  of  the  Grand  Treasury 
on  account  of  the  Orphans'  Home  shall  be  paid  upon 
warrants  drawn  by  the  Grand  Master  and  Grand  Secre- 
tary. No  warrant  shall  be  issued  for  the  payment  of  any 
moneys,  except  where  proper  vouchers  are  submitted  to 
the  Grand  Master  showing  in  detail  the  liability,  with  a 
certificate  attached  to  the  same,  certifying  that  said  bill 
has  been  approved  by  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  said 
Home,  which  must  be  certified  by  its  Chairman  and  at- 
tested by  its  Secretary.     (J.  1896,  p.  310.) 

1656.  It  shall  hereafter  be  the  duty  of  the  Directors 
of  the  Orphans'  Home  and  Old  Folks'  Home,  through 
their  Chairmen  and  Secretaries,  to  submit  to  the  Grand 
Master  their  detailed  reports  of  all  receipts  and  expendi- 
tures and  doings,  on  the  first  day  of  November  of  each 
year,  said  reports  to  be  forwarded  immediately  by  the 
Grand  Master  to  the  Finance  Committee  for  their  ex- 
amination and  report,  which  committee  report,  together 
with  the  reports  from  the  respective  Board  of  Directors, 
shall  be  published  in  the  Grand  Master's  annual  report. 
(J.  1896,  p.  311;  See  §  1650  supra.) 

OLD  FOLKS'  HOME: 

1657.  That  there  be  established  and  maintained  by 
this  Grand  Lodge  a  Home  for  the  aged  and  indigent  Odd 
Fellows,  their  wives  and  daughters  of  Rebekah  within  this 
jurisdiction;  and  for  that  purpose,  that  there  be  a  Board 
of  Trustees,  consisting  of  five,  to  be  appointed  by  the 
Grand  Master,  one  for  a  term  of  five  j^ears,  one  for  four, 
one  for  three,  one  for  two,  and  one  for  one  year,  and  at 
the  expiration  of  the  respective  terms  of  office  of  each 
of  said  Trustees,  the  Grand  Master  shall  appoint  a  suc- 
cessor, whose  term  of  office  shall  be  for  five  years.  Said 
Board  to  choose  their  own  Chairman  each  year,  and  in 
case  of  a  vacancy  occurring  in  said  Board  by  reason  of 
death,  resignation,  removal,  or  otherwise,  that  the  Grand 
Master  may,  on  notice  of  such  vacancy,  fill  the  same  by 
appointment;  and  that  said  Board  of  Trustees  be,  and  are 


329  Homes. 

liereby,  directed  as  soon  as  possible  to  determine  upon  a 
proper  location  for  the  establishment  of  said   Home,  and 
are  hereby  authorized  and  directed  to  obtain  by  purchase 
not  to  exceed  three  hundred  and  twenty  (320)   acres  and 
not   less   than   one   hundred    (100)    acres    (or   by   donation 
such  amount  as  may  be  tendered)  at  a  cost  not  to  exceed 
ten   thousand   dollars    ($10,000.00,)    and   to    erect   thereon, 
from   time   to   time,   as   the   same   may  be   needed,   suitable 
and  proper  cottages  for  the  accommodation  of  the  broth- 
ers and  sisters,  and  to  provide  for  the  suitable  and  proper 
superintendence   thereof,   and   to   make   such   rules,   condi- 
tions and  regulations   for  the  admission*  and  residence   at 
said  Home  as  they  may  deem  wise  and  proper;  and  that 
said  Board  shall  report  at  the  next  session  of  this  Grand 
Lodge   the   title   of  said  land  purchased,   together  with   a 
copy    of    the    rules,    regulations    and    conditions    made    by 
them  as  aforesaid,  together  with  an  itemized  account  of 
all  expenditures  by  them  made;  shall  thereafter  each  and 
every  year  make  their  annual  report  to  the  Grand  Master 
of  all   their  acts   and  doings,   which   report   shall   be   em- 
bodied by  said  Grand  Master  in  his  annual  report  to  this 
Grand    Lodge;    and   that   for   the    purpose    of   carrying   in 
effect   this   resolution,   it  is   hereby   ordered   that   there   be 
paid  by  the  Grand  Treasurer,  from  time  to  time,  as  may 
be    needed,    money    not    to    exceed    in    the    aggregate    the 
sum  of  ten  thousand  dollars  ($10,000.00)   during  the  fiscal 
year   of   1896  and   1897,   such   money   to   be   paid   by   said 
Treasurer  upon  warrants  drawn  by  the   Grand   Secretary 
and  the   Grand   Master.     No  warrant  shall  be  issued   for 
the  payment  of  any  moneys  except  where  proper  vouchers 
are  submitted  to  the  Grand  Master  showing  in  detail  the 
liability,  with  a  certificate  attached  to  same  that  said  bill 
has    been    approved    by    the    Board    of   Trus'tees    of    said 
Home,  which   must  be  certified   to  by  its   Chairman  and 
attested  by  its  Secretary.     (J.  1896,  p.  216,  217,  238.) 

1658.  The  rules  and  regulations  of  the  Board  of 
Trustees  of  the  Old  Folks'  Home  respecting  the  payment 
of  funeral  expenses  are  binding  upon  a  Lodge  when  said 
Lodge  accepts  the  terms  of  the  Board  of  Trustees  and 
places  one  of  its  members  in  said  Home.     (J.  1905,  p.  147.) 

1659.  The  Grand  ]\taster  is  authorized  and  directed 
to  appoint  an  Avisory  Board,  to  consist  of  five  Rebekahs, 


Homes.  330 

to  have  the  same  powers  and  perform  the  same  duties 
as  the  Advisory  Board  of  the  Orphans'  Home,  one  to  be 
for  one,  one  for  two,  one  for  three,  one  for  four,  and  one 
for  five  years,  and  that  each  year  thereafter  the  Grand 
Master  appoint  one  member  of  this  Board  to  serve  for  a 
period  of  five  years,     (J.  1896,  p.  289,  290.) 

A  ceremony  for  the  dedication  of  Homes  may  be 
found  in  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  782,  785,  846. 

1661.    RULES   AND    REGULATIONS    FOR   THE 
MANAGEMENT  OF  THE  ODD  FEL- 
LOWS' OLD  FOLKS'  HOME,  AT 
MATTOON,  ILLINOIS. 

I.  The  meetings  of  the  Board  of  Trustees  shall  be 
held  at  the  Home  in  Mattoon,  at  such  times  as  shall  be 
designated  by  the  Board;  special  meetings  may  be  called 
by  the  Chairman,  or  on  the  written  request  of  three  of 
the  members  of  the  Board;  notice  of  any  meeting  shall 
be  given,  in  writing,  by  mail,  by  the  Secretary,  to  each 
member  of  the   Board.     (See  §  1636  supra.) 

II.  The  meetings  held  in  the  months  of  April  and 
October,  in  each  year,  shall  be  known  as  a  semi-annual 
and  annual  meetings,  respectively,  at  which  meetings  all 
of  the  Advisory  Board  members  of  the  Old  Folks'  Home 
shall  be  notified  to  be  present. 

III.  A  majority  of  the  Board  being  present  at  any 
meeting,  shall  constitute  a  quorum  for  the  transaction 
of  business. 

IV.  The  officers  of  the  Board  of  Trustees  shall  be  a 
Chairman  and  a  Secretary,  and  such  other  officers  as  the 
Board,  from  time  to  time,  may  determine  to  be  necessary. 
The  officers  shall  be  elected  annually,  by  majority  vote 
or  ballot,  at  the  meeting  which  shall  be  held  in  the  month 
of  December,  to  serve  one  year,  and  until  the  election  of 
their  successors. 

V.  The  Cliairman  shall  preside  at  all  meetings  of 
the  Board  of  Trustees,  and  be  the  executive  officer  there- 
of, and  perform  such  duties  as  usually  pertain  to  such 
office,  and  sign  all  requisitions  drawn  on  the  Grand 
Treasurer,  and  shall  forward  said  requisitions  to  the  Grand 
Secretary,  who  shall  present  the  same  to  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter for  his  approval;   and   when   so  approved,   the    Grand 


331  Homes. 

Master  and  the  Grand  Secretary  shall  draw  warrants  on 
the  Grand  Treasurer  to  the  amounts  of  said  requisitions, 
and  have  prepared  the  annual  report  to  the  Grand  Lodge. 
In  the  absence  of  the  Chairman,  or  in  case  of  his  in- 
ability to  act,  the  Chairman  pro  tern  shall  perform  the 
duties  which  appertain  to  the  office  of  the  Chairman. 

VI.  The  Secretary  shall  keep  an  accurate  record  of 
all  the  proceedings  of  the  Board  of  Trustees,  and  an  ac- 
curate account  of  all  receipts  and  disbursements,  and  all 
property  belonging  to  the  Home,  and  perform  such  other 
duties  as  may  be  required  of  him  by  the  Board  of  Trus- 
tees, or  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  pertaining  to  the  business 
of  the  Home. 

VII.  The  Board  of  Trustees  shall  have  power  to 
appoint  a  Superintendent  and  a  Matron,  at  their  discre- 
tion, who  must  reside  on  the  premises,  and  have  imme- 
diate charge  of  the  Home  and  its  members,  under  the 
direction  of  the  Trustees,  subject  to  the  rules  and  regula- 
tions which  shall  from  time  to  time  be  prescribed  by  the 
Trustees.  For  the  faithful  and  satisfactory  performance 
of  their  duties,  the  Superintendent  and  Matron  shall  re- 
ceive such  compensation  as  the  Trustees  shall,  from  time 
to  time,  determine,  and  each  shall  give  bond  as  the  Trus- 
tees may  require. 

1662.    BY-LAWS  FOR  THE  GOVERNMENT  OF 
THE  ODD   FELLOWS'  OLD 
FOLKS'  HOME. 

ARTICLE  I.  This  Home  is  not  founded  as  a  hos- 
pital for  the  care  of  persons  temporarily  disabled  by  sick- 
ness or  accident.  It  is  established  for  the  care  and  main- 
tenance of  members  of  the  Order  who  are  in  good  stand- 
ing therein,  and  who  are  unable  to  earn  a  livelihood  by 
reason  of  the  infirmities  of  age  or  chronic  afflictions,  and 
the  wives  of  such  persons,  and  are  in  indigent  circum- 
stances, without  other  means  of  support,  and  for  members 
of  Rebekah  Lodges,  who  are  in  like  circumstances,  and 
also  for  widows  of  Odd  Fellows  whose  husbands  died  in 
good  standing;  and  all  such  persons,  upon  being  admitted 
to  the  Home,  will  be  cared  for  while  they  are  members 
thereof,  and  will  be  required  to  relinquish  all  claims  upon 
the  respective  Lodges  for  sick  and  attentive  benefits,  as  a 


Homes.  332 

condition   of  their  admission   to  and  support  while   in   the 
Home. 

ARTICLE  II.  Members  of  the  Order,  to  be  entitled 
to  the  benefits  of  the  Home,  shall  have  been  in  continuous 
good  standing  in  the  Order  for  the  period  of  ten  years 
next  previous  to  admission,  and  for  at  least  five  years 
thereof  in   this    Grand   Jurisdiction. 

A  widow  who  is  otherwise  qualified  by  age  or  afflic- 
tion, whose  husband  was  for  ten  consecutive  years  prior 
to  and  up'  to  the  time  of  his  death  in  good  standing  of  the 
Order,  and  for  at  least  five  years  thereof  in  this  Grand 
Jurisdiction,  shall  be  entitled  to  the  benefits  of  this  Home. 

Members  of  the  Home  who  shall  become  able  to 
support  themselves,  or  cease  to  be  indigent,  shall  be  dis- 
charged from  the  Home,  or  shall  pay  such  an  amount  for 
their  maintenance  as  the  Trustees  shall  require. 

All  applications  shall  be  sent  to  the  Secretary  of  the 
Board,  and  must  be  submitted  to  and  passed  upon  by  the 
Board  of  Trustees. 

ARTICLE  III.  In  case  of  the  death  of  a  member 
of  the  Home,  the  burial  of  such  member  shall  be  in  the 
control  of  the  Board  of  Trustees,  unless  the  Lodge  in 
which  the  member  held  membership,  or  the  relatives  and 
friends,  desire  to  take  charge  of  the  remains;  then  such 
Lodge,  relatives,  or  friends,  shall  become  responsible  for 
all  expenses,  and  shall  bury  the  member;  but  if  the  Trus- 
tees take  charge  of  the  remains,  the  expense  of  the  funeral, 
if  a  brother,  shall  be  paid  by  the  Lodge  of  which  the 
brother  was  a  member  when  admitted  to  the  Home,  out 
of  the  funeral  expeneses  prescribedi  by  the  laws  of  the 
Order,  which  must  be  paid  to  the  Trustees  of  said  Home 
to  reimburse  the  Grand  Lodge  for  its  outlay. 

The  above  rule  shall  apply  to  Rebekah  members  and 
widows,  so  far  as  practicable.     (See  §  1641  supra.) 

ARTICLE  IV.  Terms  of  Admission.— "Th^  Lodge 
in  which  the  applicant  for  admission  holds  membership, 
or  in  which  the  deceased  brother  held  membership  whose 
widow  applies  for  admission,  shall  pay  all  the  expenses  in 
transit  to  the  Home  of  the  approved  applicant,  and  of  his 
wife,  if  she  accompanies  him,  and  shall  pay  to  the  Trus- 
tees  of  the   Home  a   reasonable   fee,  at   the   discretion   of 


333  Homes. 

the   Trustees,    not    to    exceed   one    dollar    and    fifty    cents 
($1.50)  per  week  for  each  member. 

A  wife  who  accompanies  her  husband  to  the  Home 
shall,  after  his  decease  at  the  Home,  leave  the  Home,  un- 
less she,  by  reason  of  age  or  affliction,  shall  on  her  own 
account  be  entitled  to  membership  therein;  in  which  case 
the  Lodge  to  which  the  brother  belonged  at  date  of  ad- 
mission, shall,  during  the  life  of  the  widow,  for  her  main- 
tenance, pay  said  Home  a  reasonable  fee,  at  the  discretion 
of  the  Trustees,  not  to  exceed  one  dollar  and  fifty  cents 
($1.50)  per  week  for  each  member. 

Any  Lodge  recommending  admission  of  any  person 
to  this  Home  shall,  on  the  approval  of  application,  see 
that  the  person  is  cleanly,  and  properly  clothed,  and  is 
supplied  with  one  change  of  clothing;  otherwise  the  Trus- 
tees shall  procure  the  same  at  the  expense  of  the  Lodge. 

All  Lodges  whose  members  are  admitted  to  the  Home 
shall  keep  such  members  in  good  standing  in  said  Lodge 
by  payment  of  dues  while  members  of  said  Home. 

The  maintenance  fee  formerly  charged  Lodges  by 
the  Board  of  Trustees  is  abolished  by  order  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  by  the  adoption  of  the  following  resolution: 

Resolved,  That  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  the  Old 
Folks'  Home  be  instructed  to  abolish  the  rule  of  charging 
the  Subordinate  Lodges  the  sum  of  one  dollar  and  a  half 
($1.50)  for  each  inmate,  as  we  consider  the  capitation  tax 
sufficient  to  cover  the  expense  of  the  Home  under  careful 
and  judicious  management;  and  further,  it  is  a  great 
burden  on  some  of  the  Lodges  to  meet  this  tax,  which 
they  can  ill  afford  to  carry. 

Upon  motion,  the  above  resolution  was  ordered  to  go 
into  effect  January  1,  1906.     (J.  1905,  p.  262,  284.) 

The  following  rules  governing  the  Board  of  Trustees 
in  passing  upon  applications  for  admission  to  the  Home 
were  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  Session  in  1907: 

WHEREAS,  Several  members  of  the  Old  Folks' 
Home  are  possessed  of  real  estate  or  personal  property 
varying  in  value  from  one  hundred  dollars  ($100.00)  up- 
wards, which  has  been  placed  in  the  hands  of  his  or  her 
Subordinate  or  Rebekah  Lodge,  or  with  individuals  for 
safe   keeping,   with    provision   for   the   disposition   of  said 


Homes.  334 

property  upon  the  death  of  said  member,  the  Lodge  or 
individual  frequently  being  the  beneficiary,  and  applica- 
tions for  admission  to  the  Home  being  frequently  made 
by  those  who  have  some  property,  the  income  from  which 
is  insuf?'icient  to  maintain  them  outside  of  the  Home;  and, 
WHEREAS,  Said  Subordinate  or  Rebekah  Lodges 
or  individuals  do  not  pay  the  cost  of  maintenance  of  said 
member  in  the  Home,  said  cost  being  paid  by  the  mem- 
bers at  large;  therefore,  be  it 

Resolved,  That  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  the  Old 
Folks'  Home  be  governed  in  such  matters  by  the  follow- 
ing rules: 

Rule  L  Any  applicant  for  membership  in  the  Old 
Folks'  Home  possessing  real  estate,  securities,  stocks, 
money,  or  other  personal  property,  of  value  exceeding  the 
sum  of  One  Hundred  Dollars  ($100.00)  shall,  if  accepted 
as  a  member,  be  required  to  convey,  assign,  transfer  and 
set  over  to  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  said  Home  all  of 
said  property  in  excess  of  one  hundred  dollars,  in  trust, 
to  be  held  and  managed  by  said  Board  of  Trustees  for  a 
period  of  twelve  (12)  months;  and  if,  at  or  before  the  ex- 
piration of  said  period,  said  member  shall  withdraw  or  be 
discharged  from  the  Home,  then,  and  in  that  event,  the 
said  Board  of  Trustees  shall  first  deduct  from  said  proper- 
ty held  in  trust  the  sum  of  One  and  One-half  Dollars 
($1.50)  for  each  week  that  said  member  was  a  resident  of 
the  Home,  and  then  reconvey  and  turn  over  the  re- 
mainder of  said  property,  including  all  increment,  to  said 
member. 

Rule  2.  If,  at  the  expiration  of  said  period  of  twelve 
(12)  months  said  member  desires  to  remain  at  the  Home, 
said  Board  of  Trustees  shall  proceed  to  convert  all  real 
estate,  securities  and  personal  property  other  than  money 
into  cash,  the  proceeds  of  which,  together  with  all  money 
heretofore  placed  in  trust  with  said  Board,  including  all 
increment,  shall  be  remitted  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  and 
by  him  forwarded  to  the  Grand  Treasurer,  who  shall  place 
it  to  the  credit  of  said  member;  from  which  account  the 
Board  of  Trustees  shall,  prior  to  the  close  of  the  fiscal 
year,  draw  such  a  sum  as  may  have  been  agreed  upon  in 
contract  for  admission  (provided,  however,  that  said  sum 
shall  not  be  less  than  One  and  One-half  Dollars   ($1.50) 


335  Homes. 

per  week)  and  place  same  in  the  maintenance  fund  of 
said  Home,  until  said  account  is  exhausted.  The  Board 
of  Trustees  may,  at  its  discretion,  draw  from  said  account 
a  sum  not  to  exceed  four  dollars  ($4.00)  per  month,  to 
be  given  to  said  member  as  spending  money,  until  said 
account  is  exhausted. 

Rule  3.  Upon  the  death  of  a  member  of  the  Home, 
having  a  credit  balance  in  the  hands  of  the  Grand  Treas- 
urer, that  ofificer  shall,  upon  receiving  notice  of  such  death 
from  the  said  Board  of  Trustees,  transfer  said  balance 
to  the  Endowment  Fund  of  said  Home  and  enter  it  as  a 
donation  in  the  name  of  said  deceased  member. 

Rule  4.  Any  applicant  who  shall  have  conveyed  or 
disposed  of  his  or  her  property,  within  a  period  of  twelve 
months  prior  to  such  application,  for  the  purpose  of 
evading  the  provisions  of  Rule  1  of  this  resolution,  shall 
not  be  admitted  into  said  Home,  unless  the  party  or 
parties  acquiring  such  property  shall  convey  such  property 
so  previously  acquired  from  such  applicant  to  said  Board 
of  Trustees,  as  required  by  Rule  1  of  this  resolution;  and 
should  any  member  of  said  Home  inherit  or  otherwise 
acquire  property,  either  real  or  personal,  after  his  or  her 
admission  to  said  Home  the  same  shall  be  conveyed  as 
required  by  Rule  1  of  this  resolution,  or  such  member 
shall  be  discharged  from  the  Home.  Present  members 
of  said  Home  who  now  own  property  shall  be  required 
to  comply  with  Rule  1  of  this  resolution,  or  be  subject  to 
discharge.     (J.  1907,  p.  416,  417,  418,  adopted  415.) 

ARTICLE  V.  The  Trustees  may  accept  donations 
of  cash  or  property,  or  bequests,  to  be  used  for  furnish- 
ing or  maintaining  the  Home,  or  to  be  set  to  the  credit 
of  the  Endowment  Fund,  as  the  donor  or  testator  shall 
direct.  H  property  is  bequeathed  or  donated,  the  Trustees 
shall  manage  the  same  for  the  best  interests  of  the  Home 
until  it  can  be  converted  into  cash.  The  Trustees  shall 
also  prescribe  conditions  upon  which  non-indigent  aged 
members  of  the  Order,  in  good  standing  in  this  Grand 
Jurisdiction,  may  be  admitted  to  the  Home  and  its  care 
for  any  period,  or  for  life;  and  all  such  transactions  shall 
be  reported  to  the  next  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

ARTICLE  VI.  Upon  the  opening  of  the  Home,  and 
at   any   time    thereafter,    as    experience    shall    demonstrate 


Homes.  336 

the  necessity  therefor,  the  Board  of  Trustees  shall  pre- 
scribe and  establish  such  rules  of  discipline  for  the  govern- 
ment of  the  officers,  employees  and  members  of  the  Home 
as,  in  the  judgment  of  the  Board,  may  be  required. 

All  members  of  the  Home  shall  be  amenable  to  the 
Trustees  of  the  Home  for  their  conduct  as  members  of 
the  Order. 

Any  insubordinate  member  of  the  Home  may  be  dis- 
missed therefrom,  at  tlie  discretion  of  the  Board  of  Trus- 
tees. 

ARTICLE  VII.  Intoxicating  Liquors. — No  wines  or 
intoxicating  liquors  of  any  kind  shall  ever  be  kept  at  or 
furnished  to  the  Home,  or  in  or  upon  any  of  the  buildings 
or  grounds  belonging  thereto,  to  be  used  as  a  beverage, 
and  none  shall  be  permitted  to  be  so  used  thereat  or 
thereon.  A  violation  of  this  rule  by  member  or  employee 
shall  be  suflficient  grounds  for  dismissal  from  the  Home; 
nor  shall  any  person  be  permitted  to  remain  at  the  Home 
in  any  capacity  who  is  in  the  habit  of  becoming  intoxi- 
cated elsewhere.  (J.  1898,  p.  252.) 
INSURANCE: 

1663  All  former  laws  of  the  Order,  authorizing,  rec- 
ognizing, or  permitting  any  insurance  company  to  conduct 
business  with  the  members  of  the  Order,  and  using  the 
name  and  emblems  of  the  Order,  have  been  repealed, 
and  all  permission  to  solicit  business  among  the  member- 
ship, or  use  the  name  and  emblems  of  the  Order  has 
been  withdrawn.  (S.  J.  16125,  16154,  16155;  J.  1898,  p.  172, 
186,  290.) 

1664.  It  is  illegal  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  provide  fire 
insurance  for  the  property  of  its  Subordinates.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  517,  827,  873.) 

1665.  All  insurance  companies  doing  business  in  the 
name  of  the  Order,  either  as  life,  accident  or  fire,  do  so 
without  authority  from  the  S.  G.  L.,  and  members  of  the 
Order  accepting  policies  of  insurance  in  such  companies 
do  so  at  their  own  risk.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  553,  987,  1004.) 

1666.  The  law  of  the  Order  does  not  recognize  any 
private  company  or  corporation  of  any  kind,  although 
it  may  advertise  to  conduct  its  insurance  business  with 
Odd  Fellows  only.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  555,  987,  1004.) 

1667.  The   Grand  Lodge  is   authorized   to  provide  by 


2)i7  Insurance. 

legislation  that  it  shall  be  unlawful  within  its  jurisdiction 
for  any  Odd  Fellow  to  become  an  officer  or  agent  of  any 
life  insurance  company  or  association  that  is  doing  busi- 
ness against  the  laws  of  the  Order,  or  to  solicit  or  pro- 
cure or  assist  in  soliciting  or  procuring,  directly  or  in- 
directly, by  any  device  whatever,  the  insurance  of  Odd 
Fellows  in  any  such  company  or  association,  and  to  pro- 
vide for  the  trial  and  punishment  of  all  ofifenses  against 
such  laws.  It  is  improper  for  a  member  of  the  Order  to 
act  as  agent  for  any  company  that  uses  the  emblems, 
"Three  Links,"  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  413,  418;  S.  J. 
XX,  p.  553,  987,  1004.) 

1668.  Agents  of  insurance  companies  are  not  per- 
mitted to  canvas  in  Lodge  rooms  for  members  or  busi- 
ness.    (S.  J.  XX,  p.  553,  987,  1004.) 

1669.  The  Ridgely  Protective  Association  of  Wor- 
cester, Mass.,  has  no  legal  right  to  solicit  Odd  Fellows 
to  become  policy  holders  therein  under  the  pretense  that 
it  is  an  Odd  Fellows'  Insurance  Company,  duly  author- 
ized by  the  S.  G.  L.  to  do  an  insurance  business  with  the 
members  of,  or  in  the  name  of  the  Order.  (S.  J.  XX,  p. 
555,  987,  1004.) 

JEWELS: 

1670.  The  S.  G.  L.  designates  the  style,  material, 
shape  and  size  of  the  jewels  adopted  by  it  for  all  branches 
of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  894,  904,  967.) 

1671.  The  following  described  jewels  are  declared  to 
be  the  authorized  jewels  of  the  Order,  viz:  (Reference 
being  had  to  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  295,  and  special  references 
as  indicated.) 

REBEKAH  ASSEMBLY  JEWELS. 
Past  President.  The.  jewel  to  be  made  of  14-carat 
gold  and  to  consist  of  four-armed  cross,  of  special  design, 
l^^  inches  extreme  length  from  right  to  left,  resting  on  a 
wreath  of  tinted  gold  %  of  an  inch  wide  and  if:  of  an  inch 
outer  diameter,  each  arm  to  be  tipped  by  three  small  ball 
points,  the  outer  edges  having  a  raised  rim  tV  of  an  inch 
wide.  There  shall  be  engraved  on  the  arms  of  the  cross 
the  following  symbols,  namely:  On  top  arm,  the  moon 
and  seven  stars;  on  the  right  hand  arm,  the  dove;  on  the 
left  hand  arm,  the  lily:  on  the  lower  arm,  Rebekah  at  the 


Jewels.  338 

well;  said  symbols  to  be  of  Roman  gold  color;  the  center 
to  contain  a  white  diamond  of  not  more  than  one-quarter 
carat;  the  jewel  is  to  be  suspended  from  a  bar,  the  design 
of  which  shall  be  three  links;  the  extreme  length  of  bar 
shall  be  1%  inches;  the  connection  between  the  jewel  and 
bar  shall  be  made  by  an  interlacing  of  the  letters  P.  P.,  in 
Roman  type,  through  the  center  and  outer  links.  The  ex- 
treme length  of  pin  and  jewel  shall  be  1%  inches.  (S.  G. 
L.  Session  of  1908,  Report  139.) 

President. — A  jewel  of  gold,  gold  plated,  or  yellow 
metal,  circular  in  form,  one  and  one-half  inches  in  diame- 
ter, one  side  to  be  plain,  and  on  the  other  side,  stamped 
or  engraved,  a  figure  or  representation  of  Queen  Esther, 
with  the  word  Service  underneath. 

Vice-President. — The  same,  with  representation,  or 
figure  of  Rebekah  at  the  Well,  with  the  word  Fidelity  un- 
derneath. 

Warden. — The  same,  with  representation,  or  figures  of 
Ruth  and  Naomi,  with  the  word  Industry  underneath. 

Secretary.  —  The  same,  with  representation  or  figure  of 
a  pen,  with  the  word  Deborah  underneath. 

Treasarer.  — The  same,  with  representation  or  figure 
of  a  key,  with  the  word  Trust  underneath. 

Marshal. — The  same,  with  representation  or  figure  of 
a  baton,  with  the  word  Hope  underneath. 

Conductor.  — The  same,  with  representation  or  figure 
of  two  wands,  crossed,  with  the  word  Safety  underneath. 

Chaplain. — The  same,  with  representation  or  figure  of 
a  Bible,  open,  with  the  word  Holy  underneath. 

Inside  Guardian. — The  same,  with  representation  or 
figure  of  a  shield,  crossed  by  a  spear,  with  the  word  Prove 
underneath. 

Outside  Guardian. — The  same  as  for  the  Inside  Guar- 
dian, except  tliat  the  word  shall  be  Vigilance. 

REBEKAH  LODGE  JEWELS. 

Past  Noble  Grand. — A  five-pointed  star  of  white  metal, 
one  and  one-half  inches  in  diameter. 

Noble  Grand. —  Of  silver  or  silver  plated,  circular  in 
form,  one  and  one-half  inches  in  diameter,  with  figure  of 
Rebekah   at  the  Well   engraved   or   stamped  on   one  side, 


339  Jewels. 

with  the  word  Fidelity  underneath.    The  other  side  of  the 
jewel  to  be  plain. 

Vice  Grand.— The  same,  with  representation  or  figure 
of  Ruth  and  Naomi,  with  the  word  Industry  underneath. 

Secretary.  —  The  same,  with  representation  of  a  pen, 
with  the  word  Deborah  underneath. 

Financial  Secretary.— The  sanie  as  for  the  Secretary, 
with  the  word  Deborah  omitted. 

Treasurer.  —  The  same,  with  representation  or  figure 
of  a  key,  with  the  word  Trust  underneath. 

Warden.— The  same,  with  representation  or  figure  of 
a  bar  and  ax,  crossed,  with  the  word  Hope  underneath. 

Conductor.  —  The  same,  with  representation  or  figure 
of  two  wands,  crossed,  with  the  word  Safety  underneath. 

Inside  Guardian.  —  The  same,  with  representation  or 
figure  of  a  shield  crossed  by  a  spear,  with  the  word  Prove 
underneath. 

Outside  Guardian.— The  same  as  for  the'Inside  Guar- 
dian, except  that  the  word  shall  be  Vigilance. 

Rehekah  Veteran  Jewel.  —  Of  yellow  metal,  one  and 
one-quarter  inches  in  diameter.  A  round  bar,  with  pin, 
is  attached  to  the  jewel  by  two  chains  of  yellow  metal, 
and  between  the  chains  is  suspended  the  monogram 
V.  R.  D.  The  round  bar  is  enameled  pink  and  green.  In 
the  center  of  the  jewel  are  the  figures  15,  in  white  enamel, 
surrounded  by  an  olive  wreath  on  a  dark  ground.  The 
outer  edge  of  the  jewels  finished  with  white  enamel.  The 
entire  length  of  the  jewel,  including  the  bar  and  chains, 
is  two  and  one-quarter  inches.  The  design  is  patented  and 
the  jewel  is  sold  by  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Sovereign 
Grand  Lodge,  on  an  order  from  a  Grand  Secretary.  (S.  J. 
1891,  p.  12585,  12631,  12701,  12825,  12864-6,  12935.) 

1672.  When  the  law  requires  that  officers  shall  wear 
jewels,  it  is  not  a  compliance  therewith  to  have  them 
wrought  in  the  regalia.     (S.  J.  5804,  5945,  5953.) 

1673.  Any  sister  member  of  the  Rebekah  Degree, 
who  has  been  a  member  in  good  standing  in  a  Rebekah 
Lodge  for  fifteen  consecutive  years,  shall  be  entitled  to 
wear  a  jewel  to  be  designated  the  Rebekah  Veteran  Jewel, 
I.  O.  O.  F.     (S.  J.  12701.) 


Liquors.  340 

1674.  Consecutive  membership  is  necessary,  and  any 
other  construction  would  defeat  the  purpose  of,  and  honor 
attached  to  the  privilege  of  wearing  such  a  jewel.  (S.  J. 
11483,   11728,   11786,   14106,   14148.) 

1675.  The  right  to  own  and  wear  the  Veteran  Jewel 
depends  upon  a  consecutive  membership  in  the  Order  for 
fifteen  years.  Any  temporary  suspension  of  member- 
ship during  that  period,  no  matter  how  short,  forfeits  the 
right.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  535,  996,  1007.) 

1676.  Holding  a  live  withdrawal  card  ^.  e.  one  that 
has  not  expired,  gives  the  holder  a  quasi -memher ship,  and 
if  the  card  is  deposited  within  one  year  with  a  petition 
for  full  membership,  and  such  membership  is  made  upon 
it,  the  continuity  of  yearly  membership  is  not  destroyed. 
(S.  J.  14250,  14487,  14570.) 

1677.  Suspension  for  cause  terminates  "good  stand- 
ing," and  not  being  restored  until  after  the  expiration  of 
one  year,  breaks  the  continuity  of  years,  so  that  the  mem- 
ber, though  restored,  is  not  entitled  to  the  jewel,  if  the 
fifteen  years  embrace  the  year  of  suspension.  (S.  J.  14250, 
14487,  14570.) 

1678.  The  purchase  and  presentation  of  Veteran 
Jewels  to  members  entitled  thereto  is  recommended  by 
the  Grand  Lodge.  (J.  1898,  p.  282;  J.  1899,  p.  96,  220,  249; 
S.  J.  XIX,  p.  786,  827,  872.) 

1679.  The  D.  D.  G.  M.  Jewel  cannot  be  sold  to  be 
worn  by  a  sister  who  is  a  D.  D.  G.  M.  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge. 
All  laws  enacted  upon  this  subject  refer  only  to  brothers 
who  have  been  appointed  D.  D.  G.  M.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  35, 
361,  371,  372.) 

1680.  Since  the  adoption  of  a  Past  President's  jewel 
by  the  S.  G.  L.  at  the  Session  of  1905,  no  jewel  can  be 
furnished  other  than  the  one  authorized.  But  the  adop- 
tion of  this  jewel  does  not  preclude  the  use  of  any  jewel 
theretofore  adopted  by  the  jurisdiction  by  those  having 
them  and  entitled  to  use  them.  (S.  J.  XXH,  p.  446,  675, 
709.) 

LIQUORS: 

1681.  Lodges  cannot  abridge  the  liberties  of  a  citizen 
nor  dictate  to  him  what  he  shall  eat  or  what  he  shall 
drink.    All  good  Odd  Fellows  despise  as  such  the  abuse 


341  Memorial  Day. 


of  intoxicating  drinks,  and  in  their  "war  against  vice" 
they  look  upon  drunkenness  as  incompatible  with  every 
principle  of  the  Order.  But  neither  will  the  laws  nor  the 
principles  of  Odd  Fellowship  descend  to  the  restriction 
or  regulation  of  the  beverages  of  its  members.  While 
temperanceis  a  cardinal  principle  of  the  Order,  and  must 
be  observed,  they  will  not  attempt  to  enforce  total  ab- 
stinence, a  principle  never  intended  by  the  framers  to 
be  engrafted  upon  our  Order.     (S.  J.  1504,  1513.) 

1682.  The  furnishing  of  wine  and  brandy  for  the  use 
and  benefit  of  the  Representatives  of  the  S.  G.  L.  is  highly 
detrimental  to  the  moral  tone  of  the  S.  G.  L.  and  ma- 
terially damaging  to  the  character  and  good  standing  of 
the  Order  in  general,  and  we  hereby  repudiate  all  au- 
thority or  sanction  of  the  S.  G.  L.  for  any  such  action 
or  use  of  the  Order,  and  hereby  also  declare  our  absolute 
objection  to  any  endorsement  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  directly 
or  indirectly,  of  the  habit  of  drinking  intoxicating  liquor 
or  of  advertising  intoxicating  liquors  as  an  attraction 
upon  any  picnic  or  excursion  with  which  the  name  of  the 
Order  is  connected,  either  directly  or  indirectly,  believing 
that  any  such  endorsement  or  advertisement  is  in  direct 
violation  of  existing  laws.     (S.  J.  13185,  13198.) 

MEMORIAL  DAY: 

1683.  The  Grand  Sire,  in  conjunction  with  the  Grand 
Secretary,  shall  issue  a  proclamation  annually,  at  least 
sixty  days  prior  to  the  10th  of  June,  requesting  all  Lodges 
to  assemble  on  the  second  Tuesday  of  June,  and  engage 
in  appropriate  services  respecting  their  dead  members, 
such  services  to  be  conducted  in  an  appropriate  manner. 
Such  proclamation  shall  embrace  the  names  of  such  offi- 
cers and  members,  if  any,  who  died  during  the  term  therein 
named;  provided,  that  if  a  different  day  be  more  con- 
venient for  any  jurisdiction  to  hold  such  memorial  ser- 
vices, the  Grand  Master  thereof  may  select  such  day,  and 
the  Grand  Master  may  issue  his  proclamation  in  accord- 
ance therewith.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  813,  841,  874.) 

1684.  It  is  lawful  to  hold  memorial  service  on  Sun- 
day. (S.  J.  15749,  16030,  16054.)  It  is  not  necessary  for 
each  Lodge  to  act  separately.  Several  Lodges  can  hold 
joint  exercises  at  a  selected  Lodge  room  or  suitable  hall. 
(S.  J.  11482,  11728,  11786.)     The  placing  of  some  symbol 


Miscellaneous.  342 


or  flag  over  the  graves  when  decorating  on  Memorial  Day 
is  recommended.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  962,  997,  1007.) 

1685.  Each  and  every  Lodge  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  of 
the  State  of  Illinois  having  deceased  brothers  buried  in 
the  cemeteries  of  their  respective  cities,  towns  and  villages 
shall,  on  some  Sunday  or  other  day  of  each  year,  the  day 
and  date  to  be  selected  by  each  Lodge,  meet  in  their  re- 
spective halls,  and  from  there  march  to  the  cemetery 
where  exercises  suitable  to  the  occasion  shall  be  held, 
and  the  graves  of  our  deceased  brothers  be  decorated  with 
flowers.  (J.  1897,  p.  297,  347,  389.)  In  1908  the  S.  G.  L. 
provided  a  Memorial  Service  for  the  use  of  Rebekah 
Lodges.     (See  S.  J.  Session  1908,  Report  No.  140.) 

MISCELLANEOUS: 

1686.  The  word  "of"  should  be  omitted  in  using  the 
initials  I.  O.  O.  F.     (S.  J.  4868,  4895.) 

1687.  The  term  "Subordinate  Bodies"  and  similar  ex- 
pressions apply  to  Subordinate  Lodges,  Subordinate  En- 
campments, Cantons,  and  Rebekah  Lodges;  while  "Sub- 
ordinate Grand  Bodies"  and  synonymous  expressions  ap- 
ply to  Grand  Lodges  and  Grand  Encampments  of  juris- 
dictions, and  the  Supreme  or  "Sovereign  Body"  means  the 
S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  11893,  12217,  12281.) 

1688.  Although  the  By-Laws  may  be  silent  on  the 
subject,  yet  when  appointed  on  a  committee,  it  is  the  duty 
of  a  member  of  a  Lodge  to  serve,  unless  excused  by  the 
Noble  Grand  or  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  8839,  9025,  9101.) 

1689.  It  is  an  established  principle  to  require  each 
branch  of  the  Order  to  use  regalia  suitable  to  itself  and 
to  keep  as  distinct  as  possible  the  work  and  appearance 
of  Lodge  business  from  the  Encampment  business.  (S.  J. 
281,  282.) 

1690.  The  various  Grand  Bodies  are  hereby  author- 
ized to  permit  Lodges  under  their  jurisdiction,  working 
in  foreign  languages,  to  dispense  with  an  American  copy 
of  their  records.  But  it  shall  always  be  competent  for 
said  Grand  Bodies,  or  their  proper  executive  officers,  hav- 
ing jurisdiction  over  said  Lodges  and  Encampments,  to 
compel  them  to  furnish  extracts  of  their  minutes,  trans- 
lated into  the  English  language,  whenever  they  shall  re- 
quire it.     (S.  J.  2113,  2131.) 


343  Miscellaneous. 


1691.  It  is  as  imperative  upon  all  Grand  and  Sub- 
ordinate Lodges  to  furnish  the  ofificers  of  their  respective 
Lodges  and  Encampments  with  the  jewels  appertaining 
to  their  rank  and  station,  as  it  is  for  the  members  thereof 
to  be  clothed  in  suitable  regalia.     (S.  J.  1290.) 

1692.  A  member  who  acquires  the  semi-annual  pass- 
word improperly,  and  by  making  use  of  said  password 
obtains  relief  from  a  Lodge  of  which  he  is  not  a  member, 
is  guilty  of  a  double  fraud  on  the  Order,  and  should  be 
required  to  refund  the  amount  received  to  the  Lodge  from 
which  he  received  it,  and  be  punished  by  his  own  Lodge 
for  the  offense.  It  would  not  be  proper  to  hold  a  Lodge 
responsible  for  funds  obtained  under  such  circumstances. 
(S.  J.  2826,  2832.) 

1693.  A  Lodge  is  guilty  of  insubordination  which 
accepts  the  resignation  of  a  member  at  a  meeting  in  which 
charges  are  preferred  against  the  member  by  the  Grand 
Master.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  40,  361,  371,  Z72:) 

1694.  A  candidate  by  card  presented  his  petition  for 
membership  and  was  rejected.  Three  weeks  later  he  again 
applied  for  membership.  The  Investigating  Committee 
reported,  ballot  was  had,  and  the  candidate  elected  and 
admitted,  all  on  the  same  evening.  The  Lodge  Consti- 
tution required  that  the  petition  should  be  referred  and 
reported  on  at  the  next  meeting.  It  was  held  that  the 
action  of  the  Lodge  was  a  flagrant  violation  of  law  which 
the  Grand  Lodge  could  properly  punish.  (S.  J.  10858, 
10902.) 

1595.  A  Lodge  which,  contrary  to  law,  initiates  a 
person  who  has  been  rejected  by  a  Lodge  nearest  his 
residence,  knowing  of  such  rejection,  is  guilty  of  a  willful 
violation  of  law,  and  is  liable  to  such  penalty  as  the  Grand 
Lodge  may  deem  adequate  to  the  offense.  (S.  J.  10715, 
10952,  11005.) 

1695.  The  use  by  Lodges  of  charts,  etc.,  containing 
figures,  emblems,  and  mottoes  not  found  among  the  recog- 
nized and  legitimate  symbols  of  the  Order,  is  clearly  in 
conflict  with  our  organic  law.     (S.  J.  7760,  7832.) 

1697.  A  Grand  Lodge  cannot  require  a  Subordinate 
to  mutilate  its  proceedings.     (S.  J.  782.) 

1698.  A  savings  bank,  though  officered  and  managed 
by  members  of  the  Order,  and  established  and  operated 


Miscellaneous.  344 


for  the  sole  purpose  of  doing  business  with  Lodges  and 
Odd  Fellows,  should  not  use  the  name  of  the  Order,  and 
a  State  Grand  Body  has  no  power  to  grant  it  permission 
to  do  so.     (S.  J.  13619,  13680.) 

1699.  The  civil  courts  will  not  interfere  with  the 
enforcement  of  its  By-Laws  by  a  purely  voluntary  asso- 
ciation which  is  not  organized  for  pecuniary  profit.  (Rob- 
inson vs.  Yates  City  Lodge,  86  Illinois,  598.) 

1700.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  or  other  association  not 
for  pecuniary  profit  cannot,  on  his  expulsion,  recover  for 
the  initiation  fees  voluntarily  paid  by  him,  where  no  fraud 
is  practiced  on  him.  His  expulsion  does  not  work  a 
rescission  of  the  contract  under  which  such  fees  are  paid. 
(Robinson  vs.  Yates  Lodge,  86  Illinois,  598.) 

1701.  The  delivery  of  lectures  on  Odd  Fellowship, 
either  in  Lodges  or  in  public,  is  not  consistent  with  the 
duties  of  brethren  of  the  Order,  unless  they  are  authorized 
to  act  in  such  capacity,  by  special  enactment  of  Lodges 
or  Encampments  of  the  State  or  territory  within  whose 
jurisdiction  the  lectures  are  delivered;  and  all  enactments 
of  Grand  or  Subordinate  Lodges  having  such  an  object 
in  view  should  expire  by  limitation  within  some  reason- 
able space  of  time.     (S.  J.  661.) 

1702.  Subordinate  Lodges  may  authorize  the  delivery 
of  lectures  on  the  doctrines  and  practices  of  the  Order, 
in  public  or  in  private,  for  a  limited  time.  The  invitation 
to  a  brother  to  deliver  an  address  to  the  public  or  to  the 
Lodge  is  such  authority  (for  him  to  speak)  as  is  re- 
quired. It  is,  in  effect,  an  enactment  expiring  within  a 
reasonable  time,  to-wit:  When  the  invitation  is  accepted 
and  complied  with.     (J.  IV,  p.  239.) 

1703.  It  is  recommended  that  the  public  press  be 
used  as  a  means  of  advancing  the  interests  of  the  Order. 
Notices  of  the  times  and  places  of  meeting  are  advised. 
A  liberal  encouragement  to  our  own  press  by  the  brethren 
of  the  Order  should  be  afforded.  The  "Odd  Fellows' 
Herald"  is  made  a  medium  of  news  as  to  the  Order,  by 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois.  Official  organs  of  the  S.  G. 
L.  are  discontinued.  (S.  J.  4420;  J.  1896,  p.  295;  S.  J. 
9797.) 


345  Miscellaneous. 


1704.  Canvassing  in  the  Lodge  rooms  of  Illinois  for 
the  sale  of  books,  certificates,  charts  and  other  articles  is 
forbidden.     (J.  VI,  p.  119.) 

1705.  All  magazines,  periodicals  or  other  publications 
purporting  to  treat  upon  Odd  Fellowship  are  solely  and 
entirely  upon  the  responsibility  of  the  individuals  pub- 
lishing and  editing  the  same,  and  have  no  sanction  or 
authority  from  the  S.  G.  L.  for  anything  that  may  appear 
therein.     (S.  J.  792.) 

1706.  The  various  matters  contained  in  the  printed 
Journals  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  as  pub- 
lished and  distributed  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  are  de- 
clared legally  and  sufficiently  made  known  and  notified 
to  the  several  Subordinate  Lodges,  from  and  after  the 
distribution  of  the  Journals.     (J.  1854,  p.  58;  W-1040.) 

1707.  The  rule  of  distribution  of  the  Journal  of  Pro- 
ceedings of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois  is  this:  Five 
copies  to  each  elective  ofificer;  one  copy  to  each  appointed 
officer,  to  each  member  of  a  committee,  and  to  each  Rep- 
resentative to  the  Grand  Lodge;  one  copy  to  each  Sub- 
ordinate Lodge  in  the  jurisdiction.  The  Grand  Secretary 
to  supply  any  further  demand,  so  far  as  practicable,  at  the 
rate  of  forty  cents  per  copy  for  the  paper  bound  Journal, 
and  fifty  cents  per  copy  for  the  cloth  bound  Journal. 
Each  Lodge  is  also  entitled  to  one  copy  of  the  Annual 
Journal  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (J.  VI,  p.  157;  W-1041;  J.  1898, 
p.  292.) 

1709.  The  February,  May,  August  and  November 
Sessions  of  the  Committee  on  Judiciary  and  Appeals  are 
known  as  the  first,  second,  third  and  fourth  sessions,  re- 
spectively. The  Grand  Secretary  is  instructed  to  have 
printed  in  circular  form  the  proceedings  of  the  first, 
second  and  third  sessions,  and  mail  to  all  Lodges  at  least 
two  copies  of  a  report  of  the  proceedings  of  the  commit- 
tee, thirty  days  after  they  are  filed.  The  proceedings  of 
the  fourth  session  shall  be  printed  only  in  the  Journal  of 
annual  proceedings  of  the  current  year.  (J.  IX,  p.  1016. 
1030;  J.  1896,  p.  269,  303.) 

1710.  The  S.  G.  L.  permits  Grand  and  Subordinate 
Bodies  to  print  blank  applications  for  membership.  (S.  J. 
14683,  15045,  15086.) 


Passwords.  346 

1711.  The  latest  decision  of  the  same  tribunal,  where 
decisions  of  the  same  question  conflict,  is  to  be  recognized 
as  the  law.     (S.  J.  7465,  7506,  7509.) 

PASSWORDS  GENERALLY: 

1712.  The  resolution  of  the  Digest  of  1847,  page  35, 
which  required  the  A.  P.  W.  to  be  communicated  by  the 
Grand  Masters  and  Grand  Representatives,  has  been  re- 
pealed, and  the  method  of  communication  now  is  for  the 
Grand  Secretary  of  the  S.  G.  L.  to  communicate  this  word 
in  cipher  to  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  on 
or  before  the  first  day  of  December  of  each  year.  (S.  J. 
XX,  p.  931,  980,  1002.) 

1713.  The  signs,  grips,  and  passwords  of  the  Order 
are  designated  to  speak  one  universal  language  to  the 
initiated  of  every  nationality  the  world  over.  Therefore, 
the  annual  traveling  password  and  the  passwords  of  the 
Degrees  are  not  to  be  translated  into  any  other  language, 
or  spoken  other  than  they  are  written,  spelled  and  pro- 
nounced in  the  English  language.  The  different  nations 
must  learn  to  give  them  the  one  universal  sound  as  nearly 
as  possible,  so  that  the  sound  of  the  word  will  be  as 
familiar  to  the  ear  as  the  signs  are  to  the  eye,  or  the  grip 
to  the  touch  of  the  hand;  to  the  end  that  an  Odd  Fellow 
of  any  country  may  be  known  and  recognized  in  any  part 
of  the  habitable  globe  as  a  brother.  The  language  used  in 
describing  and  explaining  the  use,  meaning  and  manner 
of  performing  the  signs,  grips,  etc.,  may  be  in  the  tongue 
of  the  peoples  in  which  the  Lodges  are  working.  (S.  J. 
7532,  7759,  7831;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24,  365,  394.) 

1714.  In  the  absence  of  any  limiting  local  legislation, 
the  declaration  of  the  S.  G.  L.  ("or  cause  them  to  be  com- 
municated") gives  the  Noble  Grands  of  Rebekah  Lodges 
the  same  power  in  communicating  the  passwords  that  is 
given  to  the  Noble  Grands  of  Subordinate  Lodges.  (S.  J. 
14675,  14948,  15019.) 

1715.  The  possession  of  a  visiting  card,  the  date  of 
which  extends  to  a  later  date  than  when  the  same  is 
presented,  or  an  official  certificate  for  dues  paid  to  a  date 
later  than  that  when  the  same  is  presented,  properly 
signed  and  sealed,  is  sufficient  authority  for  any  Noble 
Grand  of  a  Rebekah   Lodge,   on   proper  identification,   to 


347  Passwords. 

communicate  to  the  holder  thereof  the  A.  P.  W.  of  the 
Rebekah  Degree,  and  if  the  holder  of  a  visiting  card  or 
official  certificate,  as  above  mentioned,  is  a  member  of  a 
Rebekah  Lodge  in  the  same  jurisdiction  as  the  Rebekah 
Lodge  to  which  the  said  visiting  card  or  official  certificate 
is  presented,  then,  and  in  that  event,  the  Noble  Grand 
of  the  Rebekah  Lodge  is  authorized  to  communicate  to 
the  holder  of  the  visiting  card  or  official  certificate  the 
semi-annual  password.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  344,  374;  S.  J.  XXL 
p.  534,  752,  820.) 

1716.  An  official  certificate  or  visiting  card  in  date 
is  an  order  for  the  A.  P.  W.  and  if  issued  by  a  Lodge  of 
this  State  is  also  an  order  for  the  semi-annual  password 
(J.  1901,  p.  11,  319.) 

1717.  The  Noble  Grand  cannot  refuse  to  communi- 
cate the  A.  P.  W.  to  a  member  who  presents  his  traveling 
card,  in  due  form  of  law,  except  there  might  be  an  ex- 
treme case  of  a  brother  committing  felony  after  the  date 
of  the  card  and  before  presentation,  in  which  case  a  Noi.'le 
Grand  would  be  justified  in  declining  to  comply  with  the 
request.     (S.  J.  2146,  2177.) 

1718.  The  A.  P.  W.  should  be  communicated  to  the 
candidate  after  he  or  she  signed  the  Constitution.  (S.  J 
XX,  p.  35,  361,  371,  Z12^  Afterwards,  it  cannot  be  com- 
municated to  members  who  do  not  pay  their  dues  to  a 
date  in  advance  of  the  date  of  the  visiting  card  or  official 
certificate.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  35,  360,  371,  372.) 

1719.  A  District  Deputy  Grand  Sire  to  receive  the 
Rebekah  A.  P.  W.  is  required  to  be  a  member  of  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge,  and  to  have  other  qualifications  specified 
in  Article  XV  of  the  By-Laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  14240, 
14487,   14570.) 

1720.  The  semi-annual  password  is  determined  upon 
by  the  Grand  Master,  and  he  communicates  it  to  the  Lodge 
Deputies,  who  in  turn  communicate  it  to  the  first  two 
officers  of  the  Lodge.  (G.  L.  Const.,  Art.  IV,  §  2;  J.  1906, 
p.  183,  184,  341;  Ritual.) 

1721.  Grand  Lodges  have  the  option  to  change  the 
password  quarterly  instead  of  semi-annually  when,  in  their 
opinion,  it  shall  be  for  the  interest  of  the  Order  in  their 
respective  jurisdictions.  (S.  J.  1518;  S.  J.  14683,  14948, 
15019.) 


Passwords.  348 

1722.  Where  a  Grand  Lodge  changes  the  term  of  its 
Subordinates  from  six  months  to  one  year,  under  the  law 
of  1879,  the  term  password  issued  by  the  Grand  Master 
lasts  during  the  year,  unless  his  Grand  Lodge  determines 
to  have  two  or  more  passwords  for  the  term.  (S.  J.  8209, 
8337,  8440.) 

1723.  In  examination  prior  to  opening,  the  Warden 
should  receive  the  password  from  the  Noble  Grand.  (S. 
J.  XX,  p.  27,  361,  371,  372.) 

1724.  The  Grand  Master  and  his  Deputies  can  legally 
give  the  password  only  in  the  discharge  of  their  official 
duties,  and  only  to  the  presiding  officers,  or  at  the  re- 
quest of  the  presiding  officer,  and  in  no  case  without 
legal  qualification.     (J.  1853,  p.  47,  48.) 

1725.  To  members  of  Lodges  the  Noble  Grand  alone, 
or  in  his  absence,  the  Vice  Grand,  is  authorized  to  com- 
municate the  term  P.  W.,  or  cause  it  to  be  communicated 
by  the  Warden  or  other  member.  The  Noble  Grand  of 
one  Lodge  may  give  the  term  P.  W.  to  a  member  of  an- 
other Lodge  upon  the  written  request  of  the  Noble  Grand 
of  the  Lodge  to  which  the  brother  belongs,  under  its 
seal.  (Ritual,  S.  J.  6350,  6619,  6692,  9160.)  Or  it  may  be 
given  to  a  brother  upon  presentation  of  a  visiting  card  or 
official  certificate  in  date,  issued  by  a  Lodge  of  the  same 
Grand  Jurisdiction.     (See  §  1715  supra.) 

1726.  But  one  semi-annual  password  can  be  in  force 
at  the  same  time.  A  brother  with  a  card  or  official  cer- 
tificate is  entitled  to  receive  the  S.  A.  P.  or  the  A.  P.  W. 
in  force  at  the  time  such  card  in  date  is  presented.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  344,  374;  S.  J.  XX,  p.  28,  361,  371,  372.) 

1727.  A  brother  is  not  justified  in  refusing  to  give 
the  password  to  a  Past  Grand  acting  temporarily  as  War- 
den because  he  has  not  assumed  the  regalia  of  that  chair. 
It  is  sufficient  if  the  presiding  officer  recognize  him  as 
Warden  and  give  him  orders  accordingly.  (S.  J.  2144, 
2175.) 

1728.  It  is  competent  for  the  Noble  Grand  of  a  Lodge 
to  give  the  semi-annual  password  to  a  brother  of  another 
Lodge  upon  the  written  request  of  the  Noble  Grand 
under  seal  of  the  Lodge  of  which  said  brother  is  a  mem- 
ber.    (S.  J.  2826,  2832.)     This  law  applies  to  the   Noble 


349  Passwords. 

Grands    in    the    same    jurisdiction,    and    not    to    those    in 
different  jurisdictions.     (S.  J.  6350,  6619,  6692.) 

1729.  A  Noble  Grand  and  Secretary  can  issue  an 
order  for  the  semi-annual  password  which  will  extend 
beyond  their  term  of  office  and  be  good  up  to  the  time 
the  brother  pays  his  dues.     (S.  J.  15213,  15534,  15584.) 

1730.  The  Noble  Grand  may  authorize  the  Warden 
to  communicate  the  password  to  a  brother  who  is  in  the 
Lodge  room  if  he  be  entitled  to  it.  (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  27, 
284,  314.) 

1731.  Under  no  circumstances  should  a  person  hold- 
ing membership  in  another  State  be  given  the  term  pass- 
word, and  should  it  be  accidentally  acquired  by  such 
member,  its  use  would  be  an  offense.  (J.  1901,  p.  14, 
270,  294.) 

1732.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  who  is  in  arrears  for 
weekly  dues  more  than  thirteen  weeks  is  not  entitled  to 
the  term  password,  but  is  entitled  to  visit  his  own  Lodge 
until  dropped,  suspended  or  expelled.  (S.  J.  7505.)  Thir- 
teen weeks  in  arrears  means  to  owe  more  than  thirteen 
weeks  dues;  hence,  one  whose  dues  were  paid  to  Decem- 
ber 31st,  would  be  more  than  thirteen  weeks  in  arrears 
after  the  first  of  the  next  succeeding  April  if  no  further 
dues  are  paid.     (S.  J.  7909,  8072,  8173.) 

1733.  The  officers  of  Lodges  shall  not  be  installed 
nor  furnished  with  the  semi-annual  password  unless  the 
reports,  returns  and  moneys  due  from  such  Lodges  to 
their  respective  superior  jurisdiction  be  actually  made 
and  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  proper  officer,  or  be  ac- 
tually in  transit  to  the  proper  destination.  (S.  J.  2643, 
2667.) 

1734.  The  Right  Supporter  of  the  Noble  Grand  tem- 
porarily occupying  the  Noble  Grand's  chair,  has  no  right 
to  authorize  a  brother  to  confer  the  term  password  upon 
another  brother  of  the  same  Lodge  to  enable  him  to  visit 
another  Lodge.     (S.  J.  4240,  4374,  4404,  4414,  4430.) 

1735.  A  brother  presenting  an  official  certificate 
showing  his  dues  paid  to  a  date  prior  to  the  date  of  such 
presentation,  is  not  qualified  to  receive  any  password 
from  the  Lodge  visited.     (S.  J.  XXI,  p.  25,  284,  314.) 


Honors   of  Ofificc.  350 


1736.  By  direction  of  the  Noble  Grand,  the  Conduc- 
tor may  assist  the  Warden  in  taking  up  the  password. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  31,  365,  394.) 

1737.  In  a  jurisdiction  where  Rebekah  Lodges  have 
yearly  terms,  the  T.  P.  W.  may  be  for  the  year,  or  there 
may  be  a  P.  W.  for  each  half  year,  at  the  option  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.     (S.  J.  13257,  13548,  13671.) 

1738.  The  term  password  cannot  be  given  openly  in 
a  Rebekah  Lodge.     (S.  J.  14240,  14487,  14570.) 

PAST  NOBLE  GRAND: 

1739.  The  rank  of  Past  Noble  Grand  is  a  reward  for 
service  in  office  for  those  who  have  earned  it.  It  can  only 
be  obtained  by  service  and  cannot  be  conferred  by  resolu- 
tion. (S.  J.  2134,  2176;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  24,  365,  394.)  The 
retiring  Noble  Grand  is  entitled  thereto  upon  the  expira- 
tion of  her  term  of  office,  if  she  has  been  regularly  elected 
and  installed  and  has  served  a  majority  of  the  nights  of 
the  term,  and  to  the  end  of  the  term.  (S.  J.  1613,  1638, 
1845,  1886,  1949,  1898,  1952,  13783,  14036,  14070.)  Resigna- 
tion before  the  expiration  of  the  term  of  office  forfeits  the 
rank.  (S.  J.  1198,  1244,  1613,  1638.)  Leave  of  absence  for 
a  majority  of  the  nights  of  the  term  also  works  a  for- 
feiture.    (S.  J.  1845,  1866,  1949,  1898,  1952.) 

1740.  Even  though  the  Noble  Grand  may  be  absent 
on  business  by  consent  of  the  Lodge  so  that  he  does  not 
serve  a  majority  of  nights  of  a  term,  he  loses  his  right  to 
the  Degree,  and  is  not  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  office. 
(S.  J.  14682,  14948,  15019.)  Presence  in  the  Lodge  room 
a  majority  of  the  nights  is  required,  unless  excused  on 
account  of  (personal)  sickness.  (S.  J.  9371,  9456,  10255, 
10487,  10511,  11744,  11790.)  Sickness  by  reason  of  which 
a  Noble  Grand  may  be  excused  must  be  that  of  himself 
or  some  providential  interposition  affecting  himself  per- 
sonally and  preventing  his  attendance,  over  which  he  had 
no  control.  To  be  a  legal  excuse  for  absence,  the  illness 
must  be  personal  to  the  member,  and  not  among  his 
family.     (S.  J.  12554,  12646;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  504,  827,  873.) 

The  Noble  Grand  who  resigns  before  the  end  of  his 
term  is  not  entitled  to  the  honors,  though  he  may  have 
served  a  majority  of  the  nights.  (S.  J.  14681,  14948, 
15019.) 


351  Honors    of    Oflfice. 


1741.  Where  a  Noble  Grand  has  served  a  majority 
of  the  nights  of  the  term,  he  is  entitled  to  the  honors  of 
the  office,  although  leave  of  absence  may  be  granted  him 
for  the  remainder  of  the  term.  (S.  J.  8838,  9025,  9101.) 
But  resignation  of  office  before  the  end  of  the  term  for- 
feits the  honors.     (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  432,  675,  709.) 

1742.  The  first  Vice  Grand  of  a  new  Lodge  who  has 
served  the  requisite  number  of  nights,  and  to  the  end  of 
the  term,  is  eligible  to  the  office  of  Noble  Grand,  but  is 
not  entitled  to  the  rank  of  Past  Noble  Grand.  (S.  J.  1404, 
10443.)  Although  therewas  a  qualified  member  present 
at  the  time  of  the  election  who  did  not  decline  the  office, 
and  one  who  was  not  qualified  was  elected  and  installed 
without  objection,  the  member  so  elected  and  installed 
will  be  entitled  to  the  honors  if  he  serves  the  requisite 
number  of  nights,  and  to  the  end  of  the  term.  (S.  J. 
11255,  11311.)  A  Vice  Grand,  who  by  some  event,  fills 
the  chair  of  Noble  Grand  to  the  end  of  the  term,  is  not 
entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  office  without  a  previous 
election  and  installation  into  that  office.  (S.  J.  1443,  1475, 
1511.)  Irregularities  in  the  installation  of  an  officer  will 
not  deprive  him  of  the  honors  if  he  otherwise  qualifies. 
(S.  J.  15169,  15534,  15584.)  Retiring  officers  of  a  Lodge 
are  entitled  to  the  honors  of  office,  if  they  have  been 
present  a  majority  of  meeting  nights,  and  have  held  their 
offices  to  the  end  of  the  term.  (S.  J.  10717,  10942,  10979; 
modifying  S.  J.  6211,  6263.)  Lack  of  quorum  for  one  or 
more  meetings  will  not  deprive  the  Noble  Grand  of  hon- 
ors, if  she  serves  a  majority  of  the  meeting  nights  of  the 
term  and  remains  in  office  to  the  end  of  the  term.  (S.  J. 
10716,  10942,  10979.)  So  also  re-election  to  the  office  of 
Noble  Grand  does  not  prevent  the  officer  from  receiving 
the  honors  of  office  if  she  has  otherwise  qualified.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  505,  827,  873;  S.  J.  XXI,  p.  31,  284,  314.) 

A  member  who  has  once  passed  an  office  in  any 
Lodge  carries  with  him  to  any  other  Lodge  he  may  after- 
Ward  join  all  the  honors  he  may  have  earned.  (J.  1854, 
p.  7,  53;  J.  Ill,  p.  161,  193,  200;  J.  V,  p.  313,  358,  362.) 
If  circumstances  over  which  the  Lodge  can  exercise  no 
control,  shall  occur,  by  which  meetings  cannot  be  held, 
that  fact  alone  does  not  prevent  the  officers  from  receiv- 
ing the  honors  of  office.     If,  however,  the  meetings  of  a 


Processions.  352 

Lodge  are  suspended  by  its  own  seeking,  or  for  causes 
over  which  it  could  exercise  control,  the  Lodge  fails  to 
comply  with  the  letters  of  the  law,  and  the  officers  of  the 
Lodge  for  that  term  would  therefore  properly  be  de- 
prived of  the  honors.  A  dispensation  from  the  Grand 
Lodge  or  Grand  Master  can  have  no  effect  on  this  result. 
(S.  J.  278\,  2818.) 

PROCESSIONS: 

1743.  Forms  of  all  processions  of  the  Order  pre- 
scribed are  to  be  found  in  the  Book  of  Forms.  (S.  J. 
7382,  7474.) 

1744.  In  all  Lodge  processions  the  post  of  honor  is 
in  the  rear,  and  the  officers  should  be  so  arranged.  (S.  J. 
XIX,  p.  39,  365,  394.) 

1745.  Grand  Lodges  are  requested  to  strictly  prohibit 
all  processions,  etc.,  at  which  the  regalia,  emblems,  etc., 
of  the  Order  shall  be  used,  unless  permission  be  granted, 
after  due  consideration  in  open  Grand  Lodge,  or  in  its 
recess  be  granted  by  the  Grand  Master.  All  publications 
made  in  public  newspapers  calling  on  the  Order  to  appear 
in  regalia,  on  any  occasion  not  authorized  by  the  proper 
Grand  Lodge,  is  incorrect  and  censurable,  and  the  un- 
authorized use  of  the  name  of  the  Order  by  any  one  is 
erroneous  and  should  be  forbidden.     (S.  J.  392.) 

1746.  The  law  of  1864,  prohobiting  anniversaries,  etc., 
Avithout  the  consent  of  the  Grand  Master,  is  not  intended 
to  prohibit  Lodges  and  Encampments  from  joining  in 
public  procession  in  regalia,  in  connection  with  other  or- 
ganizations, when  invited  to  do  so  by  the  civil  authorities, 
and  permission  may  be  obtained  from  the  respective  juris- 
dictions under  such  regulations  as  they  may  prescribe. 
(S.  J.  3739,  3821,  3842.) 

1747.  The  order  of  arrangement  of  a  procession  of 
the  Order  at  a  funeral  is  given  in  the  Book  of  Forms. 
In  other  processions,  the  same  order  is  to  be  observed 
as  far  as  practicable,  and  the  same  rule  of  proceedings. 
The  Encampment  branch  is  considered  more  exalted  than 
the  Subordinate,  and  precedence  is  generally  given  to  the 
Patriarchal  Degrees.  This,  however,  may  be  controlled 
by  circumstances,  as  for  example,  when  the  procession  is 
organized  under,  and  in  behalf  of,  a  single  Subordinate 
Lodge.     In  this  case,  precedence   is  usually  given  to  the 


353  Processions. 

•body   under   which,   and   on   whose   behalf,   the   procession 
is  organized.     (S.  J.  962,  1932.) 

1748.  The  members  of  the  lowest  rank  go  before 
all  others  and  the  Past  Grands  are  the  last  of  the  un- 
official brothers.  The  elective  officers  and  Noble  Grand 
close  up  the  Lodge  rank.  The  corpse  of  a  deceased 
brother  comes  in  the  rear  of  all.  Hence,  in  assigning 
an  Encampment  a  place  in  a  procession  in  which  it  ap- 
pears as  an  organization,  it  would  take  precedence  by 
coming  in  the  rear  of  all  Lodges.  The  reason  of  this  is 
apparent  when  the  effect  of  the  counter  marching  is 
noticed;  that  brings  those  of  the  highest  rank  foremost 
at  the  place  of  ceremony,  while  they  are  heralded  on  the 
march  by  those  of  lower  rank.  So,  active  officers  are  of 
higher  rank  than  Past  Officers,  and  go  behind  them.  All 
officers  (except  the  Outside  Guardian,  who  is  foremost 
of  all,  the  Scene  Supporters,  who  come  next  after  the 
Outside  Guardian)  are  placed  after  the  Past  Grands. 
Past  Grands  who  have  the  Royal  Purple  Degree  are  be- 
hind others,  and  the  Past  Grands  are  arranged  in  order 
of  seniority,  the  senior  last.  Lodges  and  Encampments 
take  precedence  (that  is  rearward  position)  by  seniority. 
If  all  five  ranks  of  bodies  were  in  procession  at  once, 
they  would  be  in  this  order:  First,  Lodges,  second.  En- 
campments; third.  Grand  Lodges;  fourth,  Grand  Encamp- 
ments; fifth,  the  S.  G.  L.  (W-1093:  Book  of  Forms.  Edi- 
tion 1897,  p.  33.) 

1749.  A  Grand  Representative  is  an  officer  of  his 
State  Grand  Body,  and  in  a  procession  organized  within 
his  State,  will  occupy  such  position  as  the  laws  of  such 
State  point  out  for  officers.  If  the  procession  were  or- 
ganized by  the  S.  G.  L.  a  Grand  Representative  would 
take  position  with  that  Body,  and  ipso  facto  one  of  prece- 
dence over  the  officers  and  members  of  State  Grand 
Bodies.     (S.  J.  2214,  2264,  2327.) 

1750.  Persons  who  are  not  members  of  the  Order 
or  connected  with  it  (for  instance,  ladies  who  have  not 
the  Degree  of  Rebekah,  though  in  company  with  brothers) 
should  not  be  allowed  to  join  its  public  processions.  (J. 
IV,  p.  379,  434.) 

1751.  A  brother  holding  a  withdrawal  card  has  no 
right  to  join  a  procession  of  the   Order  without  consent 


Publications.  354 


of  the  Lodge  by  which   the  procession  is  formed.      (S.  J. 
Wn.   1471.   1485,   1503,   1513.) 

PUBLICATIONS: 

1752.  "The  History  of  Odd  Fellotvship—The  Three 
Link  Fraternity,"  hy  Henry  L.  Stillson,  Fraternity  Pub- 
lishing Co.,  Boston,  Mass.,  is  the  recognized  and  adopted 
ofificial  history  of  the  Order.     (S.  J.  15566,  15627.) 

1753.  The  use  of  the  words  "Official"  and  "Legal," 
or  either  of  them,  in  connection  with,  or  as  a  part  of, 
the  title  of  "The  Ofificial  and  Legal  History  and  Manual 
of  Odd  Fellowship,"  published  by  the  M.  W.  Hazen  Com- 
pany, and  the  reprint  therein  of  any  portion  of  White's 
Digest  or  the  Code  for  the  government  of  Rebekah 
Lodges,  is  without  any  authority  from  the  S.  G.  L.,  and 
illegal,  and  any  endorsement  heretofore  given  said  book 
by  the  S.  G.  L.  is  withdrawn.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  314,  352.) 

RITUALS: 

1754.  The  obligation  cannot  be  used  in  court  against 
a  member  in  his  suit  against  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  9503,  9669, 
9734,  9801.) 

1755.  Rituals  cannot  be  taken  from  the  Lodge  room, 
even  for  binding.     (S.  J.  14675,  14948,  15019.) 

1756.  A  Grand  Warden,  not  a  member  of  a  Rebekah 
Lodge,  has  no  right  to  the  Rebekah  Ritual.  (S.  J.  15175, 
15534,  15584.) 

1757.  Rebekah  Assemblies  cannot  permit  any  devi- 
ations from  the  work  in  the  Ritual  of  the  Rebekah  Degree. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365,  394.) 

1758.  No  portion  of  the  Encampment  Ritual  can  be 
used  in  a  Rebekali  Lodge  under  any  circumstances.  (S. 
J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365,  394.) 

1759.  Rebekah  Ritual  in  German  language  authorized. 
(S.  J.  XIX,  p.  911.)  In  French  language  authorized.  (S. 
J.  XIX,  p.  782,  827,  873.)  A  memorial  service  for  the  Re- 
bekah branch  of  the  Order  adopted.  (S.  J.  Session  1908, 
Report  140.) 

SUPPLIES: 

1760.  Rebekah  Lodges  may  purchase  supplies  direct 
from  the  S.  G.  L.,  if  so  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
their  jurisdiction.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  834,  903,  916.) 


355  Supplies. 

1761.  By  the  term  supplies  is  meant  the  cards  (S.  J. 
679,)  lectures,  charges,  diplomas,  odes  (S.  J.  4808)  and  the 
written  work  (S.  J.  1121)  of  the  Order,  etc.  The  S.  G.  L. 
does  not  permit  a  State  Grand  Body  to  publish  books  of 
installation  or  any  part  thereof.  (S.  J.  588.)  All  diplomas, 
certificates  or  cards  not  issued  by  the  authority  of  the 
S.  G.  L.,  which  have  been  signed  by  an  officer  or  a  Grand 
or  a  Subordinate  Body,  are  null  and  void.     (S.  J.  3135.) 

1762.  All  State  Grand  Officers  and  officers  of  the 
Subordinate  Lodges  and  Encampments  are  prohibited 
from  signing  any  diploma,  certificate  or  card  not  issued 
by  the  authority  of  the  S.  G.  L.  to  brothers  of  the  Order, 
and  properly  authenticated  by  the  Grand  Secretary  of 
the  S.  G.  L.  written  or  engraved  on  the  margin  thereof. 
(S.  J.  3135.) 

The  varioiis  articles  of  supplies  kept  for  sale  by  the  S.  G.  L. 
and  the  Grand  Lodge,  in  the  office  of  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  and  the  prices  charged  therefor,  will  be 
found  enumerated  in  a  schedule  on  the  last  page  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
Journal. —  ( Editor. ) 

1763.  The  Journals  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois 
and  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  the  Digests,  Codes,  Book  of  Forms, 
Book  of  Odes,  Anniversary  and  Funeral  Ceremonies,  are 
sold  to  individuals;  the  other  articles  must  be  ordered 
for  Lodges,  under  seal,  with  payment  accompanying  the 
order.      (T-1309.) 

1764.  Diplomas  are  delivered  to  State  Grand  Lodges, 
signed  by  the  Secretary  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  and  when  de- 
livered to  members  of  the  Order,  they  receive  the  sig- 
nature of  the  Grand  Master  of  the  State  Grand  Lodge  to 
which  the  recipient  belongs.  Diplomas  can  be  granted 
only  by  vote  of  Grand  or  Subordinate  Lodges.  (S.  J.  800; 
J.  VL  p.  497.) 

1765.  Grand  Secretaries  are  prohibited  from  deliver- 
ing or  transmitting  visiting  or  withdrawal  cards  to  any 
person  whatever,  or  to  any  Lodge,  except  upon  the  order 
in  writing  of  a  Lodge,  signed  by  its  Secretary  and  authen- 
ticated by  the  official  seal  of  the  Lodge.  Provided,  how- 
ever, that  supplies  may  be  delivered  to  the  duly  accredited 
Representatives  while  in  attendance  at  the  Annual  Ses- 
sions.    (S.  J.  3478,  5197.) 

1766.  All  new  Lodges  are  furnished  without  charge 
therefor  with  the  following:     Two  Rituals,  twelve  Visit- 


Visiting.  356 

ing  Cards,  six  Withdrawal  Cards,  eighteen  odes.     (J.  1857, 
p.  80;  T-1314.) 

1767.  The  S.  G.  L.  does  not  desire  to  prohibit  the 
publication  and  circulation  of  charts  not  published  by  the 
S.  G.  L.  so  long  as  they  contain  no  certificate  or  form 
requiring  the  signature  of  an  officer  of  any  Lodge  or 
Encampment,   Grand   or   Subordinate.      (S.   J.  8340,  8459.) 

1768.  The  use  by  Lodges  of  charts,  etc.,  containing 
figures,  emblems,  and  mottoes  not  found  among  the  rec- 
ognized and  legitimate  symbols  of  the  Order,  is  so  clearly 
in  conflict  with  our  organic  law  that  it  constitutes  a  will- 
ful breach  of  the  law.     (S.  J.  7760,  7832.) 

1769.  The  Rebekah  Code,  being  in  the  "list  of  sup- 
lies"  published  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  it  is  not  permissible  for 
a  Grand  Officer  to  publish  it  with  other  laws  of  the  juris- 
diction.    (S.  J.  14676,  14948,  15019,  15042.) 

1770.  Charters  for  Rebekah  Lodges  must  be  in  the 
form  prescribed  and  on  the  blanks  furnished  by  the  S. 
G.  L.  (Rebekah  Code,  Sec.  21;  S.  J.  XIX,  p.  942.)  But 
those  Grand  Lodges  which  have  a  form  of  Rebekah 
charter  already  in  use  are  not  required  to  purchase  blank 
charters  from  the  S.  G.  L.  until  the  supplies  they  have 
on  hand  are  exhausted.     (S.  J.  XXL  734,  746.) 

1771.  Charters  for  Rebekah  Assemblies  are  to  be 
printed  and  sold  by  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the  S.  G.  L. 
(S.  J.   16120,  16153.) 

VISITING: 
GENERALLY: 

1772.  Subordinate  Bodies,  by  existing  regulations, 
possess  an  inherent  right  to  protect  themselves  from 
disorder,  the  want  of  decorum  and  violations  of  the  or- 
dinary proprieties  of  life,  and  where  a  visitor  is  so  dis- 
orderly the  Lodge  may  refuse  him  admission  or  eject 
him  from  the  meeting,  although  such  visitor  is  in  pos- 
session of  the  proper  card,  and  has  proved  himself,  ac- 
cording to  established  regulations,  entitled  to  admission 
into  the  Lodges  of  any  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  2730,  2787, 
2818.) 

1773.  An  initiate  or  member  lower  than  the  Third 
Degree   is   an   Odd    Fellow,   and   is   entitled   to   admission 


357  Visiting. 

into  his  Lodge  when  opened  in  a  degree  to  which  he  has 
attained.     (S.  J.  8992,  9087.) 

1774.  Indians,  by  the  fundamental  law  of  the  Order, 
are  utterly  excluded  from  membership,  and  therefore, 
though  an  Indian  has  been  initiated,  presents  a  regular 
card,  has  the  password  and  passes  an  examination,  he 
cannot  lawfully  be  permitted  to  visit  a  Lodge,  nor  can 
he  be  permitted  to  do  so  under  any  circumstances.  (S.  J. 
6752,  6977,  7051.) 

1775.  An  Odd  Fellow  of  mixed  Indian  and  white 
blood,  who  has  been  admitted  to  membership  in  a  juris- 
diction legally  authorized  to  admit  him,  is  entitled  to  visit 
other  jurisdictions  where  the  qualifications  for  member- 
ship diflfer  from  those  of  his  own.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  536,  979, 
1002.) 

1776.  This  decision  is  based  upon  a  constitutional 
provision  adopted  by  the  S.  G.  L.  in  1901  (S.  J.  XX,  p. 
330,)  which  provided  that  in  jurisdictions  where  there  is  a 
population  composed  of  a  mixture  of  Indian  and  white 
blood,  a  State  Grand  Lodge  or  Encampment  may,  by 
resolution,  provide  for  the  admission  of  male  persons 
of  mixed  Indian  and  white  blood  who  have  arrived  at  the 
age  of  twenty-one.  This  constitutional  provision  was 
again  amended  in  1902  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  536,  940,)  which 
struck  out  the  entire  provision  regarding  Indians  and 
persons  of  mixed  white  and  Indian  blood.  But  while  this 
provision  was  in  force,  it  was  lawful  for  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  Indian  Territory  to  authorize  the  admission  to 
membership  in  that  jurisdiction  of  persons  of  mixed  In- 
dian and  white  blood.     (S.  J.  XX,  p.  536,  979,  1002.) 

1777.  The  laws  of  the  Order  as  to  visitation  govern 
in  all  cases  regardless  of  nationality.  (S.  J.  XX,  p.  535, 
978,  1002.)  A  Subordinate  Lodge  cannot  examine  a  visi- 
tor in  the  Grand  Lodge  Degrees.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  23,  365, 
394.)  A  member  dropped  for  non-payment  of  dues,  may 
not  visit  his  old  Lodge  unless  he  is  on  trial.  (J.  1901, 
p.  8,  319.) 

ON  CARD  OR  ON  OFFICIAL  CERTIFICATE: 

1778.  No  brother  can  be  admitted  to  visit  or  deposit 
his  card  in  a  Lodge  out  of  the  State,  District  or  Territory 
where  he  resides  unless  he  presents  a  card  or  official 
certificate  as  furnished  under  the  signatures  of  the  proper 


Visiting.  358 

oflFicers  and  seal  of  the  Lodge  of  which  he  is  a  member, 
and  signed  on  the  margin  in  his  own  proper  handwriting, 
and  prove  himself  in  the  A.  P.  W.  and  in  the  pass- 
word of  the  Rebekah  Degree:  Provided,  nevertheless,  a 
brother  may  always  visit,  if  introduced  by  a  Grand  Repre- 
sentative, or  an  elective  officer  of  the  Grand  Lodge  or 
Grand  Encampment  within  whose  jurisdiction  he  wishes 
to  visit.  Grand  Representatives  of  either  branch  are 
authorized  to  introduce  visiting  brothers  into  both  Sub- 
ordinate Lodges  and  Encampments  in  their  several  juris- 
dictions; but  in  all  such  cases  the  presiding  officer  of 
the  same  shall  be  satisfied  that  the  brother  introducing 
such  a  visitor  is  a  Grand  Representative  of  the  jurisdiction 
to  which  said  Lodge  belongs.  (Sov.  By-Laws,  Art.  XIV.) 
But  such  Representative  cannot  introduce  a  brother  of 
his  own  jurisdiction.     (S.  J.  14249,  14525,  14570.) 

1779.  A  brother  holding  a  visiting  card  issued  by  a 
Lodge  which,  since  the  date  of  issuance,  has  been  sus- 
pended or  expelled,  or  has  become  defunct,  is  not  per- 
mitted to  visit  any  other  Lodge  thereon.  (S.  J.  1470, 
1484.) 

1780.  The  members  of  the  Order  from  each  State, 
Territory  or  District  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  S.  G. 
L-  are  entitled  to  admission  into  the  Lodges  or  Encamp- 
ments of  every  other  State,  District  or  Territory,  upon 
proving  themselves  according  to  the  established  work  of 
the  Order,  and  the  production  of  a  proper  card  or  official 
certificate.  But  a  brother  cannot  be  admitted  to  a  Lodge 
upon  an  Encampment  card  or  certificate,  nor  vice  versa. 
(Sov.  By-Laws,  Art.  XIV,  Sec.  1;  S.  J.  1150,  1192,  1291, 
1316.) 

1781.  When  a  visiting  brother  presents  himself  at 
the  door  of  a  Lodge,  it  is  his  duty  to  hand  his  card  to 
the  Guardian,  that  it  may  be  placed  in  possession  of  the 
Lodge.  If  the  Lodge  be  satisfied  of  its  authenticity,  they 
will  thereupon  appoint  a  committee  of  three  members,  to 
proceed  to  the  ante-room  and  examine  the  visiting 
brother.  One  member  of  this  committee  must  be  the 
Noble  Grand  himself,  or  his  Vice  Grand,  or  sitting  Past 
Grand,  or  some  other  brother  known  to  be  in  possession 
of  the  A.  P.  W.,  whose  special  duty  it  shall  be  first  to 
obtain    the    said    A.    P.    W.    privately    from    the    visitor. 


359  Visiting. 

Tlie  committee  will  proceed  to  examine  the  visitor,  first 
as  to  his  identity,  by  causing  him  to  write  his  name 
which  shall  be  compared  with  the  signature  on  the  card 
or  certificate;  second,  in  the  degree  in  which  the  Lodge 
is  open,  and  will  report  their  judgment  to  the  Lodge. 
If  the  committee  be  satisfied,  they  will  introduce  the 
visitor,  but  if  not,  they  shall  report  him  not  correct,  and 
the  card  or  certificate  shall  be  returned  to  him  and  ad- 
mission refused.     (S.  J.  690,  912.) 

1782.  If  a  visitor  is  found  to  have  the  A.  P.  W. 
of  the  current  year,  but  his  (withdrawal)  card  is  dated 
some  other  year,  by  clerical  error  or  otherwise,  any 
Lodge  to  which  he  presents  himself  cannot  admit  him 
because  of  the  informality.  The  Lodge  cannot  go  behind 
the  face  of  the  card  and  correct  supposed  errors.  If  a 
card  has  been  returned  to  the  holder  as  informal,  and  is 
subsequently  presented  in  correct  form,  the  Lodge  must 
presume  that  the  corrections  were  legally  made.  If  the 
signatures  were  incorrect,  the  officers  who  made  them 
have  the  right  to  correct  them,  even  though  they  are 
no  longer  in  office.  (J.  IV,  p.  8,  52,  53;  J.  V,  p.  307,  384, 
392.) 

1783.  When  a  visiting  brother  shall  have  proven 
himself  entitled  to  admission  in  the  mode  pointed  out, 
he  shall  be  introduced  to  the  Lodge  by  the  Examining 
Committee,  and  not  work  his  way  in.  (S.  J.  1086,  1114.) 
The  committee  has  the  right  to  examine  a  visiting  brother 
in  the  address  to  the  chair,  and  in  everything  pertaining  to 
the  degree.  (S.  J.  14248,  14487,  14570.)  A  test  obliga- 
tion is  no  part  of  the  mode  of  examining  visitors  pre- 
scribed by  the  S.  G.  L.,  and  any  Lodge  would  be  de- 
serving of  censure  for  introducing  any  such  requirement. 
(S.  J.  1070,  1074.) 

1784.  After  a  visiting  brother  has  been  examined  and 
introduced  into  a  Lodge,  no  future  examination  of  the 
brother  upon  the  same  card  shall  be  necessary  in  the 
same  Lodge,  but  he  may  be  received  into  the  Lodge, 
at  the  opening  and  through  the  whole  session:  Provided, 
the  presiding  officer,  upon  inspection,  shall  find  the  card 
in  date  at  the  time  of  said  visit,  and  the  Lodge  shall  be 
satisfied  that  the  brother  has  before  that  time  been  regu- 
larly   examined    and    admitted    to    its    sessions    on    some 


Visiting.  360 

former  occasion  on  the  same  card.  The  visitor  may  be 
examined  before  the  opening  of  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  2923, 
2990,  6267,  6324,  9370,  9456,  9458,  9459.) 

1785.  It  is  never  legal  for  one  brother  to  vouch  for 
another.  An  Examining  Committee  is  not  confined  to 
the  A.  P.  W.  and  card  in  its  examination  of  a  visiting 
brother  from  a  different  jurisdiction,  but  should  use  all 
the  means  necessary  to  satisfy  itself  of  the  correctness 
of  the  visitor.     (J.  1855,  p.  24,  126;  J.  Ill,  p.  24,  41.) 

1786.  Tlie  holder  of  a  withdrawal  card,  when  visiting 
the  Lodge  from  which  he  drew  his  card,  must  be  ex- 
amined and  admitted  just  as  brothers  are  admitted  on 
cards  from  other  Lodges;  he  has  no  special  rights  or 
privileges.  Nor  can  a  brother  to  whom  a  withdrawal 
card  has  been  granted  be  admitted  without  password 
and  examination,  whether  he  has  taken  the  card  or  not. 
(J.  I,  p.  100;  J.  1856,  p.  20,  21,  126.) 

1787.  A  Lodge  cannot  refuse  to  admit  as  a  visitor 
a  brother  who  presents  himself  as  such  with  proper  card 
and  the  A.  T.  P.  W.  or  an  order  for  it,  whatever  may  be 
known  or  believed  respecting  illegality  in  his  initiation, 
or  immorality  in  his  conduct;  immorality  should  be  re- 
ported to  the  Lodge  granting  the  card  that  it  may  deal 
with  him.  But  the  Lodge  has  an  inherent  right  to  pro- 
tect itself  from  disorder,  the  want  of  decorum,  and  the 
violation  of  the  ordinary  proprieties  of  life.  (S.  J.  1723, 
1797,  1885.  1948,  2787,  2818,  6987,  6988,  7055.) 

Subsequent  legislation  has  made  the  card  itself  an  order  for  the 
A.  P.  W.  Therefore  the  presentation  of  the  card  without  the  A.  P. 
W.,  and  without  an  order  for  the  A.  P.  W.  will,  on  proper  iden- 
tification and  examination,   entitle  the  holder  to  admission. —  (Editor.) 

1788.  Visitors  may  not  be  required  to  leave  the  room 
during  a   trial  or  at  any  other  time.      (J.  VI,  p.  247,  387.) 

1789.  A  brother  holding  an  unexpired  visiting  card 
and  having  the  A.  T.  P.  W.  has  a  right  to  visit  Lodges  in 
his  own  jurisdiction,  though  he  has  not  the  term  pass- 
word.    (S.  J.  14249.  14487,  14570.) 

1790.  A  brother  who  is  insane  cannot  visit  a  Lodge 
upon  either  a  visiting  or  a  withdrawal  card.  (S.  J.  9853, 
10105,    10176.) 

1791.  A  Grand  Lodge  certificate  or  card  issued  to  a 
member  of  a  defunct  Lodge  does  not  carry  with  it  the 
privileges  of  visitation.     (T-1645.) 


361  Visiting. 

1792.  The  committee  has  the  right  to  examine  a 
visiting  brother  in  the  address  to  the  chairs,  and  in  every- 
thing pertaining  to  the  degree.     (S.  J.  14248,  14487,  14570.) 

1793.  Strictly  speaking,  it  is  not  vv^ithin  the  power 
of  a  Noble  Grand  of  a  Lodge  to  appoint  upon  a  com- 
inittee  to  examine  a  visitor,  a  member  of  any  other 
Lodge,  because,  the  possession  of  the  power  to  appoint, 
presupposes  the  possession  of  the  power  to  compel  ser- 
vice. But,  if  a  member  of  another  Lodge,  possessing  the 
A.  P.  \'V.,  is  willing  to  serve  upon  such  committee, 
unless  objection  is  made,  the  Noble  Grand  has  the  right 
to  request,  and  permit,  such  service.  (S.  J.  12789,  13050, 
13076.) 

1794.  The  holder  of  a  dismissal  certificate,  regularly 
issued  by  any  Lodge,  is  not  entitled  to  the  privileges  of 
visitation  thereon.  (Sov.  By-Laws,  Art.  XIV;  S.  J.  14249, 
14525.) 

1795.  A  brother  holding  a  withdrawal  card  from  one 
jurisdiction  is  entitled  to  the  A.  P.  W.  in  use  at  the 
time,  and  retains  the  right  to  visit  in  another  jurisdiction 
with  the  same  password  for  the  year.  The  presentation 
of  a  withdrawal  card  would  be  the  production  of  a 
"proper  card"  as  required  bj^  Article  XVI,  Section  1, 
Sov.   Constitution.      (S.   J.   2560,  2627,  2664.) 

1796.  A  visiting  card,  correct  on  its  face  (in  the 
absence  of  fraud,)  connot  be  rejected  by  a  Lodge.  In 
such  cases  it  must  be  received  and  given  full  faith  and 
credit.  No  Lodge  has  a  right  to  refuse  admittance  to  a 
brother  who  has  a  regular  visiting  card,  and  is  correct, 
etc.,  for  the  simple  reason  that  his  presence  is  obnoxious 
to  the  Lodge.     (S.  J.  10251,  10252,  10487.  10511.) 

1797.  Any  person  disqualified  for  membership  un- 
der the  fundamental  law  of  the  Order  (as  an  Indian, 
Chinese,  or  Negro,  by  race;  or  a  woman,  by  sex)  cannot 
be  permitted  to  visit  by  card,  however  regularly  initiated 
or  accredited.     (S.  J.  6977,  7051.) 

1798.  But  when  visiting  upon  an  ofificial  certificate, 
the  A.  P.  W.  is  the  proper  password  to  give.  The 
semi-annual  password  is  not  necessary.  (S.  J.  15744, 
16030,  16054.) 


Visiting.  362  ^^ 

1799.  A  Lodge  or  Encampment,  with  its  officers, 
can  in  a  body  visit  another  Lodge  or  Encampment  out- 
side of  its  jurisdiction  without  cards  or  the  A.  P.  W., 
but  it  is  necessary  that  one  of  their  first  two  officers  in 
charge  be  in  possession  of  the  A.  P.  W.  and  have  his 
card.     (S.  J.  2990,  6350,  6619,  6692.) 

1800.  Such  officer  may  introduce  them  in  a  manner 
provided  for  the  introduction  of  visitors  by  Elective 
Grand  Oflficers.     (S.  J.  2792,  2828,  2990.) 

1801.  A  member  of  a  suspended  or  expelled  Lodge 
has  not  the  right  to  visit  on  an  expired  visiting  card 
granted  prior  to  such  suspension  or  expulsion.  He  is 
suspended  from  his  privileges  in  the  Order  and  cannot 
visit  an  Encampment.     (S.  J.  1148,  1291,  1316,  1470,  1484.) 

1802.  The  card  of  a  brother  who  has  honorably 
withdrawn  by  card  from  his  Subordinate  Lodge  and  has 
remained  out  of  the  Order  for  a  period  of  twelve  months, 
becomes  invalid  for  the  purpose  of  visiting.  (S.  J.  1921, 
1956.) 

1803.  A  brother  cannot  visit  upon  an  expired  visit- 
ing certificate.     (S.  J.  15176,  15534,  15584.) 

1804.  After  the  visitor  has  been  once  recognized, 
the  examination  and  introduction  in  form  may  be  sub- 
sequently dispensed  with,  provided  the  presiding  officer 
shall  find  the  card  of  the  visiting  brother  to  be  in  date. 
(S.  J.  2561,  2588,  2923.  2963,  2990.) 

1805.  But  where  a  special  session  of  the  x\ssembly  is 
opened  after  a  school  of  instruction  is  held  in  the  Re- 
bekah  Degree,  the  Warden  should  examine  the  visitor  in 
the  P.  W.  of  the  Assembly  Degree. —  (Editor.) 

1806.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  may  authorize  its  Noble 
Grand  to  cause  brothers  visiting  by  card  to  be  examined 
prior  to  the  opening  of  the  Lodge.  (S.  J.  9370,  9456, 
9458,  9459.) 

ON  INTRODUCTION: 

1807.  An  elective  officer  of  a  State  Grand  Body  has 
no  authority  to  introduce  into  a  Rebekah  Lodge  a  brother 
holding  an  expired  withdrawal  card.  (S.  J.  4993,  5185, 
5222.) 


363  Visiting. 

1808.  The  presiding  officer  of  Grand  and  Rebekah 
Lodges  may  not  introduce  visitors  into  such  bodies  prior 
to  their  opening,  although  satisfied  of  the  admissibility 
of  such  visitors.  (Visitors  must  be  received  in  open 
Lodge.      (S.  J.   1244.) 

1809.  In  case  of  visitation  by  a  Lodge  in  a  body, 
the  introducing  officer  should  pass  a  satisfactory  examin- 
ation and  known  as,  or  proved  to  be,  such  officer.  (J. 
IV,  p.   194.) 

1810.  Officers  and  members  of  Rebekah  Lodges, 
when  visiting  another  Lodge  in  a  body,  and  introduced 
by  their  own  officers,  are  not  entitled  to  be  received  with 
"the  honors  of  the  Degree."     (S.  J.  3853.) 

1811.  A  Grand  Representative's  right  to  introduce 
visitors  is  confined  to  his  own  jurisdiction.  He  has  there- 
fore not  the  right  to  introduce  any  brother  into  any 
Lodge  out  of  his  own  jurisdiction  under  any  circum- 
stances.    (S.  J.  11103,  11368,  11396.) 

1812.  Grand  Officers  and  Grand  Representatives  are 
not  authorized  to  introduce  members  of  their  own  juris- 
diction; only  members  of  other  jurisdictions.  The  only 
authority  for  such  introduction  is  given  by  Article  XIV 
of  the  By-Laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.  Some  of  the  decisions 
on  that  subject  are  loosely  worded  and  misleading.  (S.  J. 
14249,  14525,  14570.) 

1813.  A  Representative  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  or  any 
elective  officer  of  a  Subordinate  Grand  Lodge,  who  is  a 
member  in  good  standing  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge,  has  the 
right  to  introduce  an  officer  into  a  Rebekah  Lodge  in 
his  own  jurisdiction  whom  he  knows  to  be  a  member  of 
a  Rebekah  Lodge  in  good  standing.     (S.  J.  13164,  13196.) 

1814.  A  Grand  Master  or  other  elective  officer  of  a 
Grand  Lodge  may,  if  properly  satisfied,  vouch  for,  and 
introduce,  a  brother  holding  an  unexpired  withdrawal 
card  (without  the  A.  P.  W.)  into  a  Rebekah  Lodge  in  the 
jurisdiction  to  which  the  officer  is  attached.  (S.  J.  3513, 
3558,  3587.) 

1815.  A  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  has  no  right 
to  intorduce  officers  whose  cards  are  out  of  date,  that 
power  being  restricted  by  law  to.  Elective  Grand  Officers. 
(S.  J.  2859,  2925,  2963.) 


Visiting.  364 

FORMALITIES   OF: 

1816.  A  member  of  a  Lodge  entering  a  Lodge  room 
while  the  Lodge  is  in  recess,  should  be  required  to  retire 
and  work  his  way  in,  according  to  law,  when  the  Lodge 
resumes  its   regular   session.      (S.   J.    12791,    13050,   13076.) 

1817.  A  Grand  Representative  or  other  elective  offi- 
cer of  a  Grand  Lodge,  acting  in  his  official  capacity,  pes 
sesses  the  privilege  of  introducing  a  visiting  brother  to 
a  Rebekah  Lodge  within  the  jurisdiction  to  which  he 
belongs.  Therefore,  a  Grand  Representative  or  Elec- 
tive Grand  Officer,  in  introducing  a  visiting  brother, 
must  himself,  of  necessity,  make  an  oflficial  visitation  to 
the  body  visited,  and  announce  his  rank  and  title  at  the 
inner  door,  in  order  to  exercise  such  privilege  of  office 
held;  consequently,  under  the  ritualistic  law,  he  shall  be 
acknowledged  with  the  honors  of  the  Degree,  which  should 
be  given  after  addressing  the  chairs,  and  before  the  oral 
introduction  of  the  visiting  brother.  (S.  J.  11896,  12217, 
12281.) 

1818.  A  Rebekah  Lodge  must  receive  the  Grand 
Master  with  the  honors  of  the  Degree  when  introducing 
a  visiting  brother,  and  a  visiting  brother  must  also  receive 
the  honors  of  the  Degree  if  entitled  to  them.  (S.  J.  11896, 
12217,   12281.) 

1819.  It  is  optional  with  a  Past  Grand  Master  when 
visiting  a  Lodge  to  announce  himself  as  Past  Grand  Mas- 
ter or  Past  Grand.     (S.  J.  13256,  13548,  13671.) 

1820.  The  A.  P.  W.  required  of  a  brother  to  prove 
himself  in  possession  of,  when  he  offers  to  visit  a  Re- 
bekah Lodge  on  an  unexpired  withdrawal  card,  or  as  an 
applicant  for  membership  therein  by  deposit  of  a  proper 
card,  is  the  A.  P.  W.  of  the  year  in  which  the  card 
was  issued  and  bears  date.  (S.  J.  3876,  3953,  3987,  4240, 
4414,  4430.) 

1821.  The  rank  of  every  meraber  to  whom  a  card 
is  granted  should  be  expressed  on  the  card,  so  that  the 
honors  to  which  he  is  entitled,  and  the  degrees  in  which 
he  may  be  proved,  shall  appear  upon  the  face  thereof; 
but  a  card  stating  the  rank  of  the  holder  thereof  shall 
not  be  sufficient  or  conclusive  evidence  to  entitle  him  to 
the  privileges  such  rank  confers.  He  must  be  proved  in 
the  work  of  the  degree  expressed   on  the  card,  provided 


365  Visiting. 

however,  if  the  card  states  the  holder  thereof  to  be  a 
Past  Grand,  and  he  shall  not  be  able  to  prove  himself 
in  the  work  of  that  degree,  from  not  having  received  it, 
the  fact  as  set  forth  in  the  card  shall  be  sufficient  evidence 
to  entitle  him  to  the  privilege  such  rank  confers.  (S.  J. 
4015.) 

1822.  A  Grand  Master,  when  visiting  a  Lodge  in 
his  official  capacity,  is  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the 
Degree,  but  a  Grand  Master  may  visit  in  his  individual 
capacity  as  a  member  of  the  Order,  and  upon  such  visits  he 
should  not  expect  to  be  received  with  the  honors.  It  is 
only  when  he  announces  himself  as  Grand  Master  that 
his  visit  becomes  official.     (S.  J.  2562,  2629,  2664.) 

1823.  A  Grand  Master  when  introducing  a  visiting 
brother,  enters  the  Lodge  in  his  official  capacity.  He 
announces  himself  as  Grand  Master  with  a  visiting 
brother,  and  is  entitled  to  be  received  with  the  honors 
of  the  Degree,  and  must  be  so  received.  He  cannot  waive 
the  right.  The  honors  are  not  to  be  given  to  the  visiting 
brother  unless  he  is  also  entitled  thereto.  (S.  J.  10716, 
10952,  11005.) 

1824.  The  honors  are  given  to  Elective  and  Past 
Grand  Elective  Officers,  visiting  outside  of  their  own 
jurisdictions,  after  they  have  been  recognized  (addressed 
the  chairs)  and  have  been  introduced  to  the  Noble  Grand 
by  name  and  rank.     (S.  J.  4993,  5185,  5222.) 

1825.  Grand  Officers  should  address  the  chairs  as 
other  members.  Grand  honors  should  be  given  imme- 
diately after  their  recognition  by  the  officers  of  the 
Lodge.     (S.  J.  4467,  4626,  4671.) 

1826.  A  Past  Grand  Master  has  the  right  to  an- 
nounce his  title  as  such  at  the  inner  door  when  visiting 
a  Rebekah  Lodge  on  ordinary  occasions,  but  he  is 
not  entitled  to  the  honors  of  the  Degree,  unless  he  visits 
on  official  business,  which  he  should  announce.  Rank 
refers  to  the  highest  rank  or  title  attained.  (S.  J.  4993, 
5185,  5222.) 

1827.  It  is  optional  with  a  Past  Grand  Master  when 
visiting  a  Lodge  to  announce  himself  as  Past  Grand 
Master  or  Past  Grand.     (S.  J.  13256,  13548,  13671.) 


Visiting.  366 

1828.  When  a  District  Deputy  Grand  Master  visits 
a  Rebekah  Lodge  for  the  purpose  of  installing  the  offi- 
cers-elect, or  upon  other  official  duty,  he,  as  the  Rep- 
resentative of  the  Grand  Master,  shall  be  accorded 
the  same  honors  that  are  given  to  that  officer.  (S.  J. 
4883,  4919.) 

IN  ANOTHER  JURISDICTION: 

1829.  No  brother  can  be  admitted  to  visit  or  deposit 
his  card  in  a  Lodge  or  Encampment  out  of  the  State, 
District  or  Territory  where  he  resides,  unless  he  presents 
a  card  as  furnished  under  the  signature  of  the  proper 
officers  and  seal  of  the  Lodge  or  Encampment  of  which 
he  is  a  member,  and  signed  on  the  margin,  in  his  own 
handwriting,  and  prove  himself  in  the  A.  T.  P.  W.  and 
in  the  degree  in  which  the  Lodge  is  open;  provided, 
nevertheless,  a  brother  may  always  visit  if  introduced 
by  a  Grand  Representative  or  any  elective  officer  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  or  Grand  Encampment  within  whose  juris- 
diction he  wishes  to  visit,  or,  by  a  District  Deputy  Grand 
Sire  in  jurisdictions  where  no  Grand  Body  exists.  Grand 
Representatives  in  either  branch  being  authorized  to 
introduce  visiting  brothers  into  both  Subordinate  Lodges 
and  Encampments  in  their  several  jurisdictions;  but  in 
all  such  cases,  the  presiding  officer  of  the  same  shall  be 
satisfied  that  the  brother  introducing  such  a  visitor  is  a 
Grand  Representative  of  the  jurisdiction  to  which  said 
Lodge  or  Encampment  belongs;  and,  provided  further, 
that  the  holder  of  a  dismissal  certificate  regularly  issued 
by  a  Lodge  or  Encampment  may  deposit  the  same  in 
any  other  Lodge  or  Encampment,  as  the  case  may  be, 
under  such  rules  and  upon  such  conditions  as  the  juris- 
diction in  which  it  is  offered  for  deposit  may  prescribe; 
but  he  shall  not  be  required  to  be  in  possession  of  the 
A.  T.  P.  W.,  nor  can  he  visit  a  Lodge  or  Encampment 
by  virtue  of  such  certificate.     (S.  J.  9028,  9102.) 

IN  OWN  JURISDICTION: 

1830.  A  brother  holding  an  unexpired  visiting  card, 
and  having  the  A.  P.  W.,  has  a  right  to  visit  Lodges 
in  his  own  jurisdiction,  though  he  has  not  the  term  pass- 
word. (S.  J.  14249,  14487,  14570.)  A  visiting  card  (in 
date)  can  be  used  in  the  jurisdiction  in  which  it  is  issued, 


367  Visiting. 

and  the  brother  holding  it  may  be  admitted  on  it  and 
the  A.  P.  W.,  though  he  be  without  the  term  password 
of  his  jurisdiction.  (S.  J.  14683,  14948,  15019.)  But  the 
holder  of  such  a  visiting  card  should  be  given  the  T.  P. 
W.  (See  §  1264  supra.)  A  brother  who  is  in  possession 
of  an  official  certificate  and  the  A.  P.  W.  may  visit 
a  Lodge  within  his  own  jurisdiction,  although  he  be 
without  the  password  of  the  current  term.  (S.  J.  15174, 
15534,  15584.)  By  later  legislation  such  certificate  in 
date,  is  authority  for  the  Noble  Grand  to  communicate 
the  A.  P.  W.  to  the  brother  if  he  be  without  it.  (See 
§  1267,  1270  supra.) 

1831.  A  brother  in  possession  of  an  official  certifi- 
cate for  dues  paid  to  a  date  later  than  when  the  same  is 
presented,  is  entitled  to  visit  upon  the  same  (in  lieu  of 
a  visiting  card)  upon  proper  identification,  whether  with- 
in or  without  his  jurisdiction,  and  is  also  entitled  to  be 
put  in  possession  of  the  passwords  of  the  Order.  (B-2169.) 

1832.  After  installation  of  officers  and  the  receipt  of 
the  new  password,  the  Noble  Grand  cannot  admit  a 
member  of  another  Lodge  on  the  old  password,  although 
the  time  for  the  installation  of  the  officers  of  the  visitor's 
Lodge  has  not  yet  arrived  and  the  visitor  for  that  reason 
was  not  entitled  to  the  password  of  the  new  term.  (S.  J. 
5502,  5545,  5796,  5828.) 

1833.  The  Noble  Grand  of  a  Lodge  has  not  the 
right  to  admit  a  member  belonging  to  another  Lodge  in 
his  jurisdiction  without  the  term  password  (S.  J.  1840, 
1897,  1952)  unless  he  has  a  card  or  official  certificate  in 
date.     (See  §   1830  supra.) 

1834.  A  member  of  a  Rebekah  Lodge  who  is  in 
arrears  for  weekly  dues  more  than  thirteenth  weeks,  is 
entitled  to  visit  his  own  Lodge.  (S.  J.  7505.)  He  cannot  be 
prevented  from  visiting  his  own  Lodge,  although  in  arrears 
for  the  non-payment  of  dues,  until  dropped  or  otherwise 
suspended  from  membership.     (S.  J.   11900,   12217,  12281.) 

TO  S.  G.  L.: 

1835.  No  brother  can  visit  the  S.  G.  L.  except  upon 
a  voucher  of  a  Representative  from  the  jurisdiction  from 
which    he   hails,   and   no    Representative    is    authorized    to 


Work.  368 

vouch  for  any  visitor,  unless  lie  is  in  good  standing  in 
his  Lodge  and  Encampment,  is  a  Past  Grand  and  in  pos- 
session of  the  Royal  Purple  Degree,  and  by  being  a  Past 
Grand  is  meant  having  the  Grand  Lodge  Degree — inas- 
much as  it  would  be  absurd  to  admit  a  visitor  to  the 
S.  G.  L.  who  is  not  qualified  to  visit  the  State  Grand 
Body.  (S.  J.  4993,  5185,  5222.)  Visitors  to  the  S.  G.  L. 
must  possess  all  qualifications  required  of  Representa- 
tives, and  these  include  membership  in  a  Rebekah  Lodge 
in  good  standing.     (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  42,  390,  398.) 

WORK: 

1836.  In  initiating,  the  Noble  Grand  may  call  upon 
any  one  qualified  to  give  the  unwritten  work,  but  it  must 
be  under  the  Noble  Grand's  authority  and  control.  (S.  J. 
14675,  14948,  15019.)  The  instituting  officer  of  a  Rebekah 
Lodge,  in  the  absence  of  a  qualified  representative  of  the 
Jurisdiction,  may  invite  a  Past  Grand  Master  of  another 
jurisdiction,  who  happened  to  be  present,  to  exemplify 
the  secret  work  of  the  Degree.  (S.  J.  XIX,  p.  32,  365, 
394.) 

1837.  No  officer  of  the  Order  is  authorized  to  give 
the  secret  work  of  the  Order  to  a  person  holding  a  dis- 
missal certificate.     ( S.  J.  XIX,  p.  515,  827,  873.) 

1838.  The  question  of  dispensing  with  the  use  of 
books  in  the  work  of  the  Order  is  a  subject  for  local 
legislation.     (S.  J.  4133,  4145,  4170.) 

1839.  The  question  whether  the  obligations  should 
be  memorized  or  read  from  the  ritual,  should,  in  the  ab- 
sence of  local  State  legislation,  be  left  to  the  Lodges, 
as  the  best  judges  of  the  manner  in  which  their  officers 
can  most  impressively  render  the  work.  (S.  J.  12644, 
12703.) 

1840.  The  rehearsal  in  any  of  the  halls  or  Lodge 
rooms  of  the  Order  of  any  work  which  is  not  the  present 
recognized  work,  in  use  and  prescribed  as  such  by  the 
S.  G.  L.,  is  clearly  against  all  propriety  and  highly  cen- 
surable, improper  and  irregular.      (S.  J.   3877,  3953,  3987.) 

1841.  No  Lodge  room  within  the  jurisdiction  of  the 
S.  G.  L.  shall  be  used  for  the  conferring  of  any  degrees 
or   secret  work  not  provided   for   by   the  existing  laws   of 


369  Work. 

the  Order,  and  any  officer  of  Subordinate  or  other  Lodge 
or  Lodges  who  may  aid  or  permit  such  degrees  to  be 
conferred  in  such  Lodge  rooms,  shall  be  guilty  of  a  viola- 
tion of  the  laws  of  the  Order;  provided,  that  this  resolu- 
tion shall  not  be  interpreted  so  as  to  affect  any  such  pro- 
ceedings as  may  be  had  in  such  Lodge  room  by  other 
secret  associations  not  under  the  color  of  Odd  Fellow- 
ship.    (S.  J.  4855,  4894.) 

1842.  It  is  a  gross  violation  of  law  for  a  Lodge  to 
use  or  have  in  its  possession  any  work  purporting  to  be 
the  secret  work  of  Odd  Fellowship,  except  that  issued 
by  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  14683,  14948,  15019.) 

1843.  It  is  a  violation  of  law  to  rehearse  any  degrees 
or  secret  work  in  the  Lodge  room  except  the  authorized 
work  prepared  by  the  S.  G.  L.     (S.  J.  14683,  14948,  15019.) 

1844.  Extracts  cannot  be  taken  from  the  Rituals  of 
the  I.  O.  O.  F.  for  any  purpose,  except  under  authority 
granted  by  an  act  of  the  S.  G.  L. ;  neither  is  it  admissible 
to  photograph  groups  of  ritualistic  characters,  and  there- 
by represent  pictures  of  any  portions  of  the  ritualistic 
floor  work  of  the  various  branches  of  the  Order,  without 
special  permission  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  11893,  12217, 
12281.) 

1845.  Neither  a  Subordinate  Body  nor  a  member 
is  allowed  to  manufacture  or  sell  photographs  of  scenes 
in  the  Dramatic   Work.      (S.  J.   14171.) 

1846.  There  is  no  law,  ritualistic  or  otherwise,  au- 
thorizing the  use  of  fire-arms,  or  appliances  of  that  na- 
ture, in  the  Lodge  or  Encampment.  (S.  J.  11482,  11728, 
11786.) 

1847.  It  is  not  permissible  for  a  Lodge  to  present, 
in  public  or  in  private,  a  burlesque  of  any  of  the  cere- 
monies of  the  Order,  or  to  give  in  public  any  dramatic 
representation  claiming  to  be  in  any  way  connected  with 
our  Ritual.     (S.  J.  13783,  14036,  14070.) 

1848.  Any  member  of  the  Order  who  shall  intro- 
duce, sell,  or  offer  to  introduce  or  sell,  to  any  Subordinate 
Lodge,  Rebekah  Lodge,  Encampment,  or  Canton  of  Pa- 
triarchs Militant,  any  device  which  in  its  character  is 
calculated  to  make  ridiculous  the  sublime  lessons  taught 
by   the    several   degrees    of   the    Order,   shall   be    guilty   of 


Work.  370 

an  ofifcnse  against  the  Order,  and  on  conviction  thereof, 
shall  be  expelled.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of,  and  obligatory 
on,  each  State,  Territorial  and  District  Grand  Lodge,  Re- 
bekah  Assembly,  Grand  Encampment,  and  Department 
Council  of  Patriarchs  Militant  to  enact  such  laws  as  will 
enforce  a  strict  compliance,  on  the  part  of  Lodges,  En- 
campments and  Cantons  subordinate  thereto,  respectively, 
with  the  provisions  and  spirit  of  the  foregoing  resolution. 
(S.  J.   15640.) 

1849.  Grand  Lodges  and  Grand  Encampments  are 
hereby  permitted  to  exemplify,  respectively,  the  degrees 
in  the  presence  of  all  duly  qualified  members  in  good 
standing,  and  for  that  purpose  to  admit  them  to  the  floor 
of  said  Grand  Bodies.      (S.  J.  9323,  9441.) 

1850.  The  written  work  is  that  furnished  to  Grand 
and  Subordinate  Bodies;  the  unwritten  work  is  found  in 
the  secret  journal  and  diagrams  in  possession  of  the 
S.  G.  L.,  and  can  only  be  communicated  orally.  (S.  J. 
1193,  1205,  14680,  14973,  15068.) 

1851.  The  right  to  print  or  publish  the  lectures, 
charges  or  odes,  adopted  by  the  S.  G.  L.  for  the  use  of 
Grand  and  Subordinate  Lodges  and  Encampments  under 
its  jurisdiction,  or  any  portion  thereof,  or  any  form  of 
diploma  now  used  by  the  S.  G.  L.,  is  exclusively  the 
property  of  the  S.  G.  L.,  and  any  violation  of  this  right 
by  Grand  or  Subordinate  Lodges,  or  individuals,  is  in 
opposition  to  the  laws,  rights  and  privileges  of  the  S.  G. 
L.  The  Grand  Masters  and  Grand  Patriarchs  of  the 
several  Grand  Bodies  are  directed  to  cause  the  law  of  the 
S.  G.  L.  in  this  respect  to  be  enforced  in  their  respective 
jurisdictions.     (S.  J.  956,  1121.) 

1852.  A  Subordinate  or  Rebekah  Lodge  may  use 
any  form  of  floor  work  it  prefers,  provided  it  conforms 
in  all  respects  to  the  Ritual.  The  forms  authorized  by 
the  S.  G.  L.  are  only  guides,  and  are  not  obligatory.  But 
if  a  Lodge  uses  any  other  form  than  that  provided  by  the 
S.  G.  L.,  it  is  not  proper  to  print  and  publish  the  same, 
as  it  must,  of  necessity,  contain  reference  to  the  Ritual 
and  ceremonies  of  the  Order,  which  can  only  be  printed 
or  published  by  authority  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J  12797 
13050,  13076.) 


371  Work. 

1853.  In  any  conflict  between  the  "Floor  Work" 
and  Ritual  or  law,  the  latter  must  govern.  (S.  J.  13256, 
13548,  13671.)  A  Lodge  may  procure  as  many  copies 
of  the  authorized  Floor  Work  as  it  requires,  but  they 
should  be  retained  in  the  custody  of  the  Lodge  for  the 
use  of  its  officers.  They  are  not  to  be  sold  or  held  by 
individual  members  as  personal  property.  (S.  J.  12797, 
13050,    13076.) 

1854.  Grand  Bodies  may  compel  their  Subordinates 
to  purchase  a  given  number  of  Rituals  not  exceeding  the 
number  allowed  by  the  laws  of  the  S.  G.  L.  (S.  J.  15168, 
15558,  15616.) 

1855.  It  is  unlawful  for  the  Charge-Books  or  others 
containing  or  relating  to  the  secret  work  of  the  Order 
to  be  taken  from  the  Lodge  room.  The  Noble  Grand 
of  a  Lodge,  being  the  proper  custodian  of  such  books, 
may  intrust  them  to  his  Subordinate  officers  for  the  pur- 
pose of  qualification,  while  in  the  Lodge  room.  The 
laws  of  the  Order  prohibit  the  writing  of  the  charges, 
as  well  as  all  other  parts  of  the  secret  work.  (S.  J.  4467, 
4626,  4671.) 

1856.  Concerning  the  rebinding  of  old  Rituals:  The 
law  does  not  permit  the  Rituals  being  taken  from  the 
Lodge  room,  but  if  they  can  be  bound  in  the  Lodge  room 
there  can  be  no  objection;  provided,  the  binder  is  a  mem- 
ber of  the  Order,  who  has  the  entire  work  of  the  par- 
ticular Ritual  to  be  bound.  (S.  J.  11127,  11368,  11396, 
14527,  14565.) 

1857.  The  obligation  to  a  candidate  must  be  admin- 
istered by  a  Vice  Grand  or  Past  Vice  Grand.  Where  the 
instructions  in  "Floor  Work"  say  that  "positions  on  a 
staff  are  to  be  governed  by  the  question  of  fitness,"  it 
means  fitness  within  the  limitations  of  law.  (S.  J.  13256, 
13548,  13671.) 

1858.  All  Official  Examiners  and  Official  Instruc- 
tors, appointed  for  the  Rebekah  Lodges,  shall  report  an- 
nually on  or  before  the  first  day  of  October,  to  the  Chief 
of  Instructors,  the  work  they  have  done  in  the  year, 
including  the  number  of  schools  of  instruction  held,  and 
the  number  of  sisters  and  brothers  who  have  become  pro- 
ficient in  such  work.  The  Chief  of  Instructors  shall  make 
a  full  report  to  the  Grand  Master  on  or  before  October 


Work.  372 

15th  in  each  year,  and,  in  order  to  make  effective  the  fore- 
going, all  commissions  issued  by  the  Grand  Master  to 
Official  Examiners  and  Official  Instructors  for  Rebekah 
Lodges  shall  provide  that  such  appointees  shall  report 
all  their  acts  as  such  Examiners  and  Instructors  to  the 
Chief  of  Instructors  for  Rebekah  Lodges,  on  or  before 
tlie  first  day  of  October  in  each  year.     (J.  1902,  p.  315.) 

1859.  The  Grand  Lodge  may  grant  to  the  President 
of  the  Rebekah  Assembly  the  power  of  appointing  an 
Official  Instructor  or  Board  of  Instruction  to  teach  the 
secret  work  of  the  Rebekah  Degree.  (S.  J.  XXII,  p.  441, 
675,  709.) 


Mh^K 


375  Abbreviations. 


INDEX 

The  figures  refer  to  the  Sections. 


ABBREVIATIONS. 

ABSENCE  of  officers  no  excuse  for  not  opening  meeting 
when,  95.  Excuse  for  should  be  of  record,  379.  When 
counted  for  honors,  380.  Temporary,  442,  444.  See 
Excuse. 

ACCLAMATION.     Election  by,  651,  655,  663. 

ACT  OF  INCORPORATION.  Of  G.  L.  provides  for 
election  of  R.  Lodge  Trustees,  523. 

ACCUSED.  Entitled  to  copy  of  charges,  933.  May  not 
be  compelled  to  testify  against  himself,  975. 

ACQUITTAL.     See   Plea. 

ADJOURNMENT.    Motion  to  adjourn  always  in  order,  92. 

ADMISSION.     See  Visiting. 

ADMISSION  BY  CARD.  See  Cards,  Candidates,  Pe- 
titions. 

ADOPTION.  Of  child  renders  it  eligible  to  membership 
when,  256. 

AGE.  Of  candidate  for  degree,  144,  160,  224,  241,  242. 
Of  wife  of  Odd  Fellow,  241,  242. 

AID.  Application  for  not  entertained  when,  47,  48,  49, 
50,  51.     Obtaining  by  false  pretenses,  779,  785. 

ALARM.  May  not  be  used  to  call  meeting,  93.  Meeting 
dispersed  by,  94. 

AMENDMENT.  Of  Assembly    Constitution.      See   Con- 

STITUTION. 

Of  Assembly  By-Laws  and  Rules   of  Order.     See  By- 
Laws. 
Of  R.  L.  Const.     See  Constitution. 
Of  R.  L.  By-Laws.     See  By-Laws. 
Of  Records,  116,  120,  121. 
ANCIENT  ODD  FELLOW.    Who  is,  1182. 


Anniversary.  376 

ANNIVERSARY.  Of  Rebekah  Degree,  67.  Of  the  Or- 
der, 68.     On  Sunday,  69. 

ANNULLMENT.     Of  election   to   membership,   159,   235. 

Of  card,  873. 
ANTE-ROOM.      Members    cannot    vote    from,    1436.      Is 

part  of  Lodge  room,  1436. 

APPEAL,.  From  Lodge  in  discipline  cases,  1107  to  1111, 
inclusive. 

APPEARANCE.     Cures  defect  in  summons,  937. 

APPLICATION.  For  aid,  47,  48,  49,  50,  51.  For  mem- 
he7-ship.     See  Petition. 

APPOINTIVE  OFFICERS.     See  Officers. 

APPROPRIATIONS.      For    libraries,    28.      See     Funds. 

May  not  be  made  at  special  meetings,  470.  What  are 
legitimate,  1373  to  1381,  inclusive.  What  are  not 
legitimate,  1382,  1383. 

A.  P.  W.    See  Passwords. 

ARM.     Loss  of,  154,  155. 

ARREARS.     Forfeits  right  to  vote,  1043.     See    Dropping, 

Dues. 
ASSEMBLY  DEGREE.     See  Degrees. 

ASSESSMENT.  Not  permitted  for  libraries,  28.  To  pur- 
chase regalia,  740.  For  what  and  for  what  not  levied, 
1339,  1340,  1341,  1342,  1343,  1347. 

ASSETS.     See    Property. 

ATHEIST.  Not  eligible  to  membership,  137,  149,  150, 
224.     Election  of  annulled,  159,  235. 

ATTENTIVE  BENEFITS.     See  Benefits. 

ATTORNEY.     See  Counsel. 

AUSTRALIA.     Australian  cards,  1206. 

AUTREFOIS  ACQUIT  OR  CONVICT,  PLEA  OF.     See 

Plea;  Jeopardy. 
AYES  AND  NOES.     See    Yeas  and  Nays. 
BADGES.    Worn  by  whom,  736,  737,  743. 
BALL.     See  Festival  and  Festivities.   Dispensation  for 

necessary,   52,  62.      On   Anniversary,   70.      Not   neces- 


^11  Books. 

sarily  scandalous,  72.     Advertising  without  authority, 
799. 
BALL   BALLOT.      Not   necessary   to   drop   for   non-pay- 
ment of  dues,  752.     Cubes  may  be  used,  1429. 

BALLOT, /o?'  Membership.  Discretion  of  Lodge  in  cast- 
ing, 14L  Annulled  when,  159.  Not  permitted  at 
special  meeting,  316.  General  and  local  law  govern- 
ing, 323  to  358,  inclusive.  Void  ballot,  342,  343,  344, 
345,  346.     When  final,  338,  340,  354,  355. 

For  Election  of  Officers.     See  Elections. 

On  Charges.     See  Trial. 

On  Penalty.     See  Trial. 

On  Other  Questions.     See  Vote. 

BANQUET.     See  Festivity. 

BAR-TENDER.  Ineligible  to  membership,  188.  Who 
are,  188,  197.     Woman  bar-tender,  233. 

BENEFITS.  Sick  benefits  may  not  be  paid,  1354,  1355, 
1356,  1357,  1358,  1359.  Attentive  benefits  rendered, 
540,  541,  542. 

BILLS.  May  be  referred  to  Finance  Committee  or  paid 
without  reference,  1372. 

BLACK  BALL.  See  See  Ballot. 

BLACK  BOOK.     Lodge  shall  have,  1114. 

BLANK.     Ballot,  how  counted,  651. 

BLIND.     Ineligible  to  membership,  151,  152. 

BOND.  Issued  for  borrowed  money,  34.  Financial  Sec- 
retary must  give,  479.  Treasurer  must  give,  490.  Con- 
ditions of  Treasurer's  bond,  490.  Surety  bond  for 
Treasurer  or  Secretary,  499.  Treasurer's  bond  how 
approved,  490.  Interlineations  or  erasures  in  a  bond, 
approval  withheld,  493.  Custodian  of  official  bonds, 
482,  493.  Premium  on  surety  bond,  1379.  Of  Secre- 
tary Rebekah  Assembly,  1531,  1565.  Of  Treasurer 
Rebekah  Assembly,  1537,  1565.  Officer  re-elected  must 
give  new  bond,  482.     See  Investments. 

BOOKS.  Of  Treasurer  Rebekah  Assembly,  1537.  Of  Sec- 
retary and  Treasurer  Rebekah  Lodge.  See  Secretary 
AND  Treasurer. 


Book  of  Forms.  378 


BOOK  OF  FORMS.  Code  of  Procedure  in  trials  in,  in- 
sufficient, 924.     See  Supplies. 

BROTHERS.     Qualifications  of  for  membership,  374. 

BURIAL.  One  under  charges,  entitled  to,  926.  See 
Funeral. 

BURLESQUE.  On  work  not  permitted,  59.  Lodge  room 
not  used  for,  129. 

BUSINESS.  Who  may  participate  in,  81.  Quorum  of 
those  entitled  to  participate  in,  necessary,  86.  Busi- 
ness transacted,  101  to  110,  inclusive.  May  be  trans- 
acted under  Good  of  the  Order,  107.  Receipts  of 
evening  is,  118.  What  transacted  at  special  meeting, 
126,  130,  132,  133.     See  Order  of  Business. 

BY-LAWS.    Of  Assembly.     1565. 

Of  R.  L.  Amendment  of  to  change  regular  meeting,  125. 
Power  to  make,  1453,  1457,  1458,  1460,  1461.  How  ap- 
proved, 1453,  1454,  1462,  1463,  1464,  1490.  Some  valid 
By-Laws,  1455,  1462.  Some  invalid  By-Laws,  1459, 
1465,  1466.  Some  unnecessary  By-Laws,  1456.  Not 
to  be  ssupended,  1466,  1476.  Amendment  to  approved, 
1467.  Name  and  number  may  be  repeated  in,  1478. 
Secretary's  compensation  fixed  in,  1479.  Appointment 
of  committees,  1480.  How  amended,  1481,  1482.  Model 
By-Laws,  1484.     See  Amendments. 

CANDIDATE,  For  Degree.  Discretion  of  Lodge  over, 
141.  Age  of,  144,  160.  Insane,  148.  Deformity  of,  153. 
Loss  of  limb  by,  154,  155.  Residence  of,  158.  Solicit- 
ing of  permitted,  161.     Language  of,  168. 

For  3fembership   by  Card,  269  to  287,  incl. 

For  Membership  as  A.  O.  F.,  288  to  303,  incl. 

For  Office,  should  not  be  Teller,  591.  When  dropped, 
651,  661.     Not  properly  in   nomination,  651,  657,  664. 

Political  Candidate,  41. 

CANVASSING,  for  books  in  Lodge  room,  1704,  1668. 

CAPITATION  TAX.  Must  be  paid  before  installation, 
618,  619,  620.  How  forwarded,  1415.  When  paid  by 
new  Lodge,  1416.  Failure  to  pay,  1426.  Authorized, 
1559  to  1562,  incl. 


379  Cards. 

CARDS.  I.  Generally.  Filled  out  by  Secretary,  470. 
Lodge  Deputy  may  not  renew  by  endorsement,  726. 
All  general  laws  relating  to  applicable  to  R.  Lodges, 
1167.  Definition  of,  1188.  Who  signs  and  seals,  1189, 
1193,  1196,  1203.  Rank  expressed  in  1194,  1195,  1202. 
No  extra  writing  placed  on,  1200.  Must  be  issued  on 
prescribed,  1201.  Bearing  name  of  former  Grand  Sec- 
retaries, 1204.  Need  not  be  countersigned  by  State 
G.  Sec,  1205.  Australian  cards,  1206,  1223.  Southern 
cards,  1223. 

IL  Visiting  Cards.  Petition  for  membership  on,  304 
to  313,  incl.  When  and  to  whom  issued,  1250,  1255, 
1260,  1263.  May  not  be  refused,  when,  1253,  1276.  No 
ballot  necessary,  1256.  Attentive  benefits  certified  to, 
1257.  Recalled  or  annulled,  1258.  Not  renewed  by 
indorsement,  1259.  To  insane  member,  1261.  Pass- 
words communicated  on,  1264.  Membership  of  holder 
not  to  be  questioned,  1266.  Color  of,  1267.  Dues  paid 
in  advance  before  receiving,  1277.  Holder  must  pay 
dues,  1312. 

III.  Withdrawal  Cards.  Not  granted  to  saloon-keeper, 
when,  204.  Issued  to  bar-tender  valid,  when,  208.  Lost 
or  destroyed,  291,  1198.  Petition  for  admission  on 
live  card,  269  to  287,  incl.,  1234.  On  expired  card,  288 
to  303,  incl.  Lodge  must  issue,  when,  307.  Holder  of, 
subject  to  discipline,  840,  1249.  When  annulled,  873, 
1199,  1221,  1235,  1236,  1237,  1238,  1241,  1247.  Holder 
of  may  file  complaint,  890.  Holder  of,  cannot  be  re- 
instated, 1148.  Holder,  of,  is  quasi -m^mhtr  of  Order, 
1171.  When  and  to  whom  granted,  1174,  1175,  1178. 
Holder  may  become  charter  member  of  new  Lodge, 
1176.  May  be  refused,  1177,  1220,  1222,  1240.  May  not 
be  refused,  307,  1190.  Granting  of,  postponed,  1179. 
Granting  severs  connection  with  Lodge,  1181.  With- 
held by  Secretary,  when,  1191,  1192.  To  one  who  has 
not  signed  Constitution,  1197.  Issued  by  Grand  Lodge, 
1207,  1208,  1246.  Must  be  granted  or  refused  by  bal- 
lot, 1224,  1248.  Application  for,  1225,  1226,  1227,  1228, 
1232,  1233,  1242,  1243,  1244.  Charges  pending,  1230, 
1231,  1241,  1247.  Issued  by  no  quorum,  1239.  Language 
of,  1245. 


Cards.  380 

IV.  Official  Certificate.  Petition  for  membership  on 
304  to  313,  incl.,  1275.  Legislation  authorizing,  1254. 
Is  an  order  for  P.  W.,  1267,  1268,  1269,  1270.  May  be 
used  in  lieu  of  visiting  card,  1271,  1273,  1274.  Dues 
must  be  paid  in  advance  to  entitle  holder  to  visit  on, 
1272.  No  other  receipt  to  be  used,  486,  1322,  1323. 
Special  form  for  R.  Lodges,  1324.  Signed  by  mem- 
ber, 1325. 

V.  Dismissal  Certificate.  Petition  for  membership  on, 
290,  294.  For  R.  Lodges,  1168.  Dropped  member  en- 
titled to,  1169.  No  ballot  required  to  grant,  1170. 
Issued  by  Grand  Lodge,  1207,  1208,  1210.  Defunct 
certificate,  1209.  When  and  to  whom  issued,  1250. 
General  laws  applicable  to,  1278  to  1288,  incl. 

VI.  Grand  Lodge  Card.  Petition  for  membership  on, 
295,  296,  297.  Issued  to  members  of  defunct  Lodges, 
1207,  1210,  1211,  1212. 

VII.  Transfer  Certificate.  When  and  to  whom  is- 
sued, 1289. 

CASTING  VOTE.     See  Vote.     Tie  Vote. 

CAUCASIAN,  221. 

CELEBRATION.  Assessment  may  not  be  levied  to  pay 
expenses  of,  1342.  Of  Anniversary,  1374.  See  Anni- 
versary, Festivities. 

CEMETERY.  Sites  for,  may  be  purchased  from  General 
Fund,  1381. 

CEREMONIES.  For  dedicating  Homes,  1660.  See  Sup- 
plies. 

CERTIFICATE.  Made  out  by  Secretary,  470.  Of  mem- 
bership, 1567,  1568. 

Of  Trustees.     Filed  in  Recorder's  ofTice,  when,  521. 
For  Degree.    322. 

Of  Resignation.   Proper  credentials,  when,  234.    No  par- 
ticular  form   necessary,    1251.      Not   granted   by  vote, 
but   issued   by   officers,    1251.      Wlio   entitled    to,    1251. 
Dismissal  Certificate.     See  Card. 
Official  Certificate.     See  Card. 
CHANGE   OF  NAME.     By  Lodge,   18.     By  person,   181. 
CHANGE  OF  VENUE.     See  Venue. 


381  Chief  of  Examiners. 


CHAPLAIN.  Duties  of,  not  to  be  enforced,  422.  Past 
Chaplain  qualified  for  Vice  Grand,  423. 

CHARGE  BOOK.     See  Ritual. 

CHARGES.  I.  Parts  of  Ritualistic  and  Unwritten 
Work.     See  Ritual,  Work. 

II.  For  Dues,  etc.,   on  Lodge  Ledger.      Officer   must 
be  free  from  at  installation,  613,  622. 

III.  As  the  basis  of  Disciplinary  Proceedings. 
Against  Members.  Preferred  by  member  of  one 
Lodge  against  member  of  another  Lodge,  46.  Duty 
of  Lodge  to  prefer  against  saloon-keeper,  203.  Form 
of  against  saloon-keepers,  205.  General  and  local  law- 
governing,  909  to  925,  inch  Form  of,  910.  What  are 
sufficient,  920.  What  are  not  sufficient,  912,  917,  919, 
923,  925.  Two  or  more  acts,  how  stated,  911.  Should 
be  spread  on  records,  916.  Filing  of,  jurisdictional, 
918,  921.  Rights  of  members  pending  charges,  926  to 
930,  incl.  Procedure  after  charges  brought  in,  933, 
1131,  incl.  Objections  to  charges,  937  to  940.  Not 
amended,  when,  1026.  Against  both  Noble  Grand  and 
Vice  Grand,  1031.     See  Complaint,  Trial. 

CHARITY.  Donations  not  made  to  other  charitable  or- 
ganizations,  1402. 

CHARTER.  Of  Assembly  and  R.  Lodges,  by  whom 
granted,  3,  4,  6,  7,  19.  Form  of,  3.  Requisite  number 
for,  4.  Not  signed  by  President  and  Secretary  of  As- 
sembly, 5.  Of  R.  Lodge  not  revoked  by  Assembly,  8. 
Grand  Master  may  not  restore  when,  10.  President 
of  Assembly  may  not  restore,  11.  May  be  granted  by 
Assembly,  when  and  how,  12.  May  not  be  surren- 
dered, when,  13.  Presence  of,  necessary  to  validate 
business,  101.  Noble  Grand,  custodian  of,  433.  Must 
be  in  Lodge  room  during  session,  433.  Forfeiture  of, 
1445  to  1448,  incl.  Surrender  of  charter,  1449  to  1452, 
incl. 

CHARTER  MEMBERS.     Pay  admission  fee,  1292. 

CHARTS.     Unauthorized  charts,   1696. 

CHIEF  OF  EXAMINERS  AND  INSTRUCTORS.  In 
Rebekah  Assembly,  1538. 


Chinese.  382 

CHINESE.     221. 

CHRISTIAN    ENDEAVOR.     Donation   to,   illegal,   1369. 

CIRCULAR.     Lodge  may  not  issue  without,  45. 

CITATION.  When  issued,  933.  To  accused,  form  of, 
945.  Form  of  return,  on  by  Warden,  946.  Construc- 
tive service  of,  1116  to  1019,  incl.  Objections  to,  947. 
General  rules  applicable  to,  945  to  953,  incl.  To  wit- 
ness form  of,  964.  Invitation  to  witness  not  a  mem- 
ber, 965,  966. 

CLANDESTINE  LODGE.  Officers  of,  not  entitled  to 
honors,  512,  658.     See  Spurious. 

CLUB  ROOM.     Appropriations  to  maintain,  1373,  No.  19. 

CODE.   Model  Code  of  By-Laws  for  Rebekah  Lodge,  1484. 

COMMISSION.  Of  Deputy  read  to  Lodge,  706.  Form 
of,  714. 

COMMISSIONER  TO  TAKE  TESTIMONY.  May  not 
proceed  ex  parte,  929,  984,  985.  When  appointed,  933. 
Power  of,  933.  May  be  challenged,  941.  Form  of  ob- 
ligation, 942.  Member  of  Prosecuting  Committee 
may  not  be,  943.  Prejudice  of,  944.  Must  be  obli- 
gated, 933.  May  obligate  witnesses,  933.  Must  cause 
witnesses  who  are  not  members  to  be  sworn,  933. 
Must  pass  on  objections  to  testimony  and  preserve 
his  rulings,  933.     Expense  of,  how  paid,  980. 

COMMITTEE.  Standing  Committees  in  Assembly,  what 
are  and  how  appointed,  1546.  Special  Committees, 
when  and  how  appointed,  1546. 

Credential  in  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1548 
Executive  in  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1547. 
State  of  the  Order  in  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1554. 
Legislative  in  Assembly .     Duties  of,  1549. 
Finance  in  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1550. 
Foreign  Correspondence  in  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1551. 
Mileage  and  Per  Diem  Committee  in  Assembly.     Du- 
ties of,  1552,  1563. 
Printing  in  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1553. 
Trustees  in  Assembly.     1555. 


383  Conflict. 

In  Rehekah  Lodge.  Committee  of  the  whole,  103.  Re- 
port of  committee  when  before  Lodge,  104,  should  be 
intelligible,  105.  How  appointed,  433.  Duty  of  mem- 
ber to  serve  on  unless  excused,  516.  May  not  add 
to  its  number  nor  delegate  duties,  517.  Appointment 
of  absent  member  on,  517.  May  not  draw  funds,  518. 
Meeting  of,  on  Sunday,  520. 

Investigating  Committee.  Report  when  before  Lodge, 
104.  When  appointed,  314.  Always  a  Special  Com- 
mittee, 317  519.  When  report  due,  317,  318,  320. 
Holder  of  W.  D.  C.  petitioning  for  membership,  ex- 
amined by  280,  286.  Should  not  be  appointed  on  a 
verbal  application,  282.  Report  must  be  signed  by 
majority,  318.  Appointment  and  report  only  at  regu- 
lar meetings,  319.  Report  of,  when  made,  disposed 
of  as  report  of  any  other  committee,  335. 
Standing  Committee,  Trustees,  Visiting  and  Relief, 
Finance,  and  others,  are,  515.  See  Trustees,  Visit- 
ing Committee,  Finance  Committee. 

Special  Committee.  On  grievance  or  petition  must  al- 
ways be,  519. 

COMMUNICATIONS.  Attested  by  seal,  when,  76.  Writ- 
ten  by   Secretary,   470. 

COMPENSATION.     See  Salary. 

COMPLAINT.  Made  to  N.  Grand  as  basis  of  charges, 
884  to  908,  incl.  What  it  shall  contain,  888.  When 
filed  with  V.  Grand,  892.  Open  complaint,  931. 
Against  member  of  another.  Lodge,  932.  False  and 
malicious,   1113. 

COMPROMISE.     Of  discipline  cases,  904. 

CONCERT.     Lodge  may  not  give,  when,  65. 
CONDUCT  UNBECOMING.     See  Offensse. 

CONFESSION.  Penalty  may  not  be  inflicted  on,  unless 
charges  and  specifications  are  filed,  921.  Of  miscon- 
duct, 1081. 

CONFLICT  OF  LAWS.  Subordinate  must  obey,  when, 
26.  Subordinate  By-Law  conflicting  with  local  or 
general  law,  1459.     Latest  decision  prevails,  1711. 

CONFLICT  OF  AUTHORITY.     Sec.  25,  26. 


Consent.  384 

CONSENT.  Unanimous,  to  receive  and  act  on  petition, 
359. 

CONSOLIDATION.     Not  permitted,  when,   13. 

CONSTITUTION.  Of  Behekah  Lodge  Signing  of, 
necessary  to  complete  membership,  172,  185,  186,  304, 
311,  349.  Signing  on  reinstatement  not  required,  1158. 
How  amended,  1469,  1475.  Uniform,  1471,  1472,  1473. 
What  it  should  contain,  1470.  Must  not  conflict  with 
G.  L.  Constitution,  1474. 
Of  Behekah  Assembly.    How  amended,  1564. 

CONSTRUCTION  OF  LAWS.     See  Noble  Grand. 

CONTEMPT.  What  is,  960,  1079,  1087,  1096,  1129,  1130. 
What  is  not,  950,  951,  952,  953,  1012,  1021,  1100,  1102, 
1104,  1105.  Proceedings  necessary  to  support  expul- 
sion for,  961.  Record  should  show  service  before  ex- 
pulsion for,  1097,  1101.  New  trial  after  expulsion  for, 
1098.  Is  summary  proceeding,  1099.  Proceedings 
after  expulsion  for  set  aside,  1103. 

CONTINGENT  FUND.  Receipts  from  socials  and  en- 
tertainments, 66.  Legislation  and  decisions  concern- 
ing, 1348  to  1353,  incl. 

CONTINUANCE.  When  allowed,  928.  Should  be  to  a 
date  and  place  certain,  928.  To  take  testimony,  933. 
When  not  allowed,  995. 

CONTRIBUTING  MEMBER.     See  Non-contributing. 

CONVENTION.     Assembling  in  illegal,  when,  2,7. 

CONVICTION.     Plea  of  former. 

See    Plea.       Under  charges  may  not  be  reconsidered 
except,   1045. 

COUNSEL.  Lodge  should  seek  of  whom,  43.  Deputy 
should  not  be  attorney  in  Lodge  trial,  588.  Prose- 
cuting Committee  may  engage,  901.  May  appear  be- 
fore plea  entered,  958.  Appointed  for  accused,  when, 
961,  1014. 
General  rules  governing,  1007  to  1015,  incl.  Must  be 
member  of  the  Order,  1015.    On  change  of  venue,  1124. 

COURTS.  Will  not  interfere  when,  1699,  1700.  Griev- 
ances   arising    out    of    business    or    pecuniary    affairs 


385  Delegate. 

should  be  referred  to,  800,  822,  823,  834,  850,  878,  879. 
Effect  of  plea  of  guilty  in,  972,  1005.  Rules  of  evi- 
dence in,  how  far  applicable  to  Lodge  trial,  980,  986. 
Acquittal  in,  not  a  defense  in  Lodge  trial,  993.  Record 
ot prima faeie,hu\.  not  conclusive,  998,  999,  10O2,  1004. 
Copy  of  record  not  admissible,  when,  1000.  See  Suits 
AT  Law. 

CRAZY.     See   Insane. 

CREDENTIALS.     See  Committee,  Separate  Titles. 

CRIME.     Conviction  of,  784,  972. 

CRIPPLE.  Loss,  mutilation,  or  disability  of  right  hand 
does  not  disqualify  for  ofifice  of  Noble  Grand,  559. 
When  qualified  for  admission  to  membership,  153. 

CUBE.     See    Ballot. 

CUSTODIAN.  Of  Lodge  funds  and  securities,  490,  496. 
Of  official  bonds,  493,  529. 

DAUGHTER.     When  eligible,  224,  242,  243,  244,  254. 

D.  D.  G.  M.     See  Deputies  of  the  Grand  Master. 

D.  D.  G.  S.     See  Deputies  of  the  Grand  Master. 

DEAF  MUTE.     Ineligible  to  membership,   151. 

DEATH.     Of  inmate  of  Old  Folks'  Home,  1641. 

DEBATE.  By  Noble  Grand,  433,  438.  Any  officer  may 
take  part  in,  430.     See    Rules  of  Order. 

DEBOISSIERE  CASE.     1620,  1623. 

DECISION.  Latest  controls,  1711.  Of  Lodge  Deputy, 
who  may  appeal  from,  694.  How  taken,  694.  Where 
taken,  690. 

DEFORMITY.     Of  candidate  for  degree,  153. 

DEGREES.    Rehekah  Degree.     See  Rebekah  Degree. 
Assembly  Degree.   1496,   1501.     How   transmitted,    1504. 
How  conferred,  1505. 

DEGREE  MASTER.     Is  not  an  officer,  426. 

DEGREE  TEAM.     See  Team. 

DELEGATE.  May  be  Trustee,  533.  When  elected,  72,1, 
1557.    Vacancy  in  office,  1558. 


Deposit  of  Card.  386 


DEPOSIT  OF  CARD.     See  Card. 

DEPOSITION.    When  and  how  taken,  962,  963,  1126. 

DEPUTY  OF  THE  GRAND  MASTER.  Lodge  Depu- 
ties. Lodge  Deputy  may  be  N.  G.  pro  tempore,  448. 
Must  see  that  property  is  insured,  538,  686.  Recom- 
mended by  Lodge  to  Grand  Master,  678,  680,  712. 
How  appointed,  679.  Decisions  by  and  appeals  from, 
679,  690,  694.  Sisters  may  be,  when,  681.  Past  Grand 
of  Subordinate  may  be,  when,  682,  683.  Should  not 
take  part  in  Lodge  trials,  688.  May  appeal  only  as  a 
member,  689.  Should  interfere  only,  691,  692.  Repre- 
sents Grand  Master,  693,  699.  Must  be  member  of 
R.  Lodge,  696.  Honors  of  degree  when  given  to,  697, 
N.  G.  or  V.  G.  may  not  be,  698,  725,  710,  722.  Au- 
thority of  depends  on  local  law,  700.  Instituting  offi- 
cer is,  703.  Authority  at  installation,  704.  Commis- 
sion of,  read,  706.  Removal  of,  707.  Recording  Sec- 
retary may  be,  710,  722.  May  not  have  rituals,  711. 
Certificate  of  recommendation,  713.  Commission  of, 
714.  Arrears  for  dues,  715.  Eligibility  not  ques- 
tioned, when,  717.  Need  not  have  G.  L.  Degree,  719, 
720.  May  not  be  disqualified  from  holding  office,  722. 
Grants  dispensations,  723.  May  not  confer  G.  L.  De- 
gree, 724.  May  act  as  N.  G.  pro  tempore,  725.  May 
not  renew  card,  726.  Duties  of,  728.  Powers  of,  729. 
Prohibitions  which  control  Deputy,  730.  May  not 
bring  charges,  851. 
Special  Deputies.  Sister  may  be  when,  695.  Must  be 
member  of  R.  Lodge,  696.  Brother  of  another  juris- 
diction not  eligible,  718. 

DIPLOMA.    See  Supplies. 

DISCIPLINE.     Who  subject  to,  839  to  843,  incl. 

DISEASE.     Renders  one  ineligible  to  membership  when, 
148.     When  election  of  member  may  be  annulled  on  ac- 
count of,  346. 
DISMISSAL   CERTIFICATE.     See  Cards. 

DISPENSATION.  Ball  cannot  be  given  without,  52,  54, 
62,  70.  Granted  for  one  purpose  may  be  used  for 
another,  55.  Pleasure  clubs  must  have,  56.  Condi- 
tioned on  exclusion  of  intoxicants,  58,  71.     To  cele- 


387  Dues. 

brate  Anniversary,  70.  May  not  issue  to  dispense 
with  regular  meeting,  125.  Dispensation  to  change 
regular  meetings,  when  issued,  125.  To  change  place 
of  meeting,  127,  128.     Granted  by  Lodge  Deputy,  723. 

DIVORCE.  Divorced  woman,  when  eligible,  262,  264. 
Effect  on  competency  of  wife  as  witness,  976,  977. 
Record  of  trial  in,  how  far  admissible,  1004. 

DOMICILE.     See  Residence. 

DONATION.  Dues  may  not  be  donated,  1318.  Not  made 
to  other  charitable  organizations,  1402.  Not  made  to 
Christian  Endeavor  Society,  1369.  Not  made  to  Y. 
M.  C.  A.,  1362. 

DROPPED.  Reinstatement  of  dropped  members,  1135 
to  1149,  incl.  Member  entitled  to  dismissal  certificate, 
1169. 

DROPPING.  For  non-payment  of  dues,  local  and  gen- 
eral laws,  747  to  771,  incl.  Takes  place  of  indefinite 
suspension,  847. 

DRUNKENNESS.    See  Intoxication. 

DUES.  Arrearages  for,  may  disqualify  from  holding 
office  or  participating  in  business,  549,  1043.  Arrears 
for  by  Lodge  Deputy,  715.  May  not  be  refused  prior 
to  suspension  of  member,  754.  Set  off  against,  760, 
761.  Right  to  vote  not  lost  on  account  of  arrears, 
when,  762.  Not  increased  on  account  of  non-pay- 
ment, 763.  No  expulsion  for  non-payment  of,  765. 
Insane  member  not  dropped  for  non-payment,  769. 
Tender  of  payment,  770.  Of  one  reinstated  on  ap- 
peal, 771.  Refunded  on  issue  of  W.  D.  C,  1229,  1330. 
Or  death,  1330.  Regular  amount  payable,  1301,  1302, 
1303,  1304,  1305,  1307,  1311,  1316,  1317,  1318,  1321,  1326, 
1328,  1333,  1334.  Definition  of  term,  1306.  Tender  of, 
must  be  accepted,  1308,  1329.  May  be  required  in  ad- 
vance, 1309,  1311.  Effect  of  change  of  By-Law,  1310, 
1331.  Paid  in  cash,  1313.  To  whom  paid,  1314.  Error 
in  amount,  1315.  Not  to  be  donated,  1318.  Or  re- 
mitted, 1325,  1327,  1333.  Off-set  against,  1320.  Re- 
ceipt for,  1322,  1323.  Accrue  weekly,  1328.  Arrears 
compromised,  when,  1332.  Sent  by  mail,  135.  Sus- 
pended members  pay,  1333,  1336.  Special  dues,  1337 
to  1347. 


Dumb.  388 

DUMB.      Ineligible    for    membership,    151. 
DUTIES.     See  Officers. 
EFFECTS.     See  Property. 

ELECTION.  Of  Members.  Annulled  when,  159,  235. 
None  without  ballot,  334. 

Of  Officers  in  B.  Lodge.  Controlled  by  local  legis- 
lation, 27.  Of  members  not  qualified,  void,  577,  588. 
General  and  local  laws  relating  to,  581  to  595,  incl. 
When  held.  581.  Not  held  at  special  meeting,  582, 
592.  The  general  and  local  law  governing  the  man- 
ner of  conducting  elections,  651  to  673,  incl.  By  Lodge 
under  suspension  or  expulsion,  658.  Election  con- 
tested, 660,  669,  670. 

Of  Officers  in  Assembly.     1565, 

ELECTIONEERING.     For   a   candidate   for   office,   671. 

EMBEZZLEMENT.     Is  an  oflfense,  786. 

EMBLEMS.  Not  to  be  used  when,  without  dispensation, 
71.  Of  the  Order,  what  are,  and  what  is  proper  and 
improper  use  of,  1569  to  1583,  incl. 

ENDORSEMENT.     See  Indorsement. 

ENDOWMENT  FUNDS.     1584  to  1588,  incl. 

ENGLISH.  Transcripts  of  Records  to  be  furnished  in, 
when,  115.     Passwords  given  in,  1713. 

ENTERTAINMENT.  Not  given  without  dispensation, 
54.  Proceeds  derived  from,  placed  in  contingent  fund, 
when,  66.  Dramatic  entertainments,  59.  Entertain- 
ments during  Grand  Lodge  Session,  60. 

ERASING.     In  records  improper,  121. 

ERROR.  Financial  Secretary  may  correct  error  in  ledger 
when,  485.  Appointment  of  Prosecuting  Committee 
by  Lodge  instead  of  by  Noble  Grand  is,  905,  906. 
Admission  of  ex  parte  evidence,  985.  In  payment 
of  dues,  1315. 

EVIDENCE.      Newly  Discovered.    979. 
Burden  of  Proof.     670. 
Of  Membership.     145,  147. 

Subm.itted  During  Trials.  Prosecuting  Committee  must 
secure,   903.     Ex  parte  evidence   may   not   be   taken, 


389  Fees. 

929.  Rules  relating  to,  962  to  1006,  incl.  Rules  of 
evidence  prevailing  in  courts  of  law  should  be  fol- 
lowed, 980,  981.  Ex  parte  testimony,  see  ex  parte 
Dying  declaration,  986.  Lodge  and  Encampment 
records,  when  they  may  be  introduced,  988,  989. 
Court  records,  997,  998,  999,  1000,  1002,  1004,  1005,  1006. 

EXAMINER.     See  Chief  of  Examiners. 

EXCLUSION.  When  member  may  be  excluded  from 
Lodge  room,  1078. 

EXCUSE.  For  absence  must  be  of  record,  379.  Oppor- 
tunity for  must  be  given,  394.  What  is,  and  what  is 
not  an  excuse  for  absence,  395,  401,  402,  406,  407,  408, 
556.  Majority  vote  grants,  398.  Of  Noble  Grand  to 
whom  made,  436. 

EXECUTIVE  COMMITTEE.     See  Committee. 

EXECUTIVE  OFFICERS.    415,  440. 

EXEMPT.  No  person  exempt  from  payment  of  fees  in 
Illinois,  1292.    Who  may  be  exempt  from  dues,  431. 

EX  PARTE.  Examination  of  conduct,  897,  898.  What  is 
ex  parte  examination,  978.  Ex  parte  testimony  not 
admissible  in  trials,  983,  984,  985. 

EXPELLED.  When  not  eligible,  238.  Member  of  an- 
other jurisdiction  not  admitted  except,  156.  Rein- 
statement of,  169.  For  conviction  of  crime,  784. 
Name  of  not  published,  812,  813.  R.  Lodge  cannot 
expel  from  Order,  875.  Notice  of  expulsion  to  other 
Lodges,  1112.  Reinstatement  of  expelled  members, 
1150  to  1164. 

EXPENDITURE.     See  Appropriations  and  Funds. 

EXPENSES.  Of  officers  Rebekah  Assembly,  1565.  Of 
Special  Sessions  of  Assembly,  1541. 

EXPULSION.  Not  permitted  for  non-payment  of  dues, 
765.     Saloon-keeper  may  avoid,  how,  198. 

FEES.  Must  be  paid  before  admission,  157.  For  admis- 
sion when  returned,  361.  For  reinstatement,  1143, 
1299,  1300.  When  to  be  paid,  1290.  Remission  of, 
1291.  Clergymen  must  pay,  1292.  To  whom  paid, 
1293.     Error   in   amount,    1294.      Controlled   by   local 


Festivities.  390 

law,   1295.     When  joining  another  jurisdiction,    1296. 
Paid  in  cash,  1297.     For  admission,  1298. 

FESTIVITIES.  Sections  52  to  72,  incl.  Not  held  on 
regular  meeting,  57.  Lodges  not  to  give  to  Grand 
Lodge,  60. 

FINANCE.    Of  Lodge,  how  far  under  its  control,  1295. 

FINANCE  COMMITTEE.  Appointment,  and  duties  of, 
544.  Pro  tempore  appointment  of  member,  545.  See 
Committee. 

FINANCIAL  SECRETARY.    See  Secretary. 

FINE.  May  not  be  remitted  when,  36,  394.  How  im- 
posed, 394.  When  imposed,  394,  395,  396,  397,  398,  399, 
403,  471.  Trustees  fined  when,  532.  Non-attendance 
of  members  not  finable,  831,  832.  Officers  fined,  1083, 
1088. 

FLAG.     Political  flag,  40. 

FOREIGN  CORRESPONDENCE.     See  Committee, 

FOREIGN  LANGUAGE.  Lodges  working  in,  need  not 
keep  records  in  English,  but  must  furnish  English 
transcripts,  when,  115,  1690.  Records  kept  in,  when, 
1690. 

FORMER  ACQUITTAL  OR  CONVICTION.    See  Plea. 

FORMS.  Of  Charters,  3.  For  keeping  minutes  of  meet- 
ing, 113.  Of  charges  against  saloon-keepers,  205.  Of 
petition  for  membership,  314.  Of  introduction  of 
members  elected  by  card,  352.  Of  Secretary's  bond, 
482,  483,  499.  Of  Treasurer's  bond,  497,  499.  Of  cer- 
tificate of  recommendation  of  Lodge  Deputy,  713. 
Commission  of  Deputy,  714.  Of  notice  of  arrears,  758. 
For  appointment  of  Prosecuting  Commttiee,  895.  Ob- 
ligation of  Commissioner,  942.  Of  citation  to  accused, 
945.  Warden's  return  on  citation,  946.  Citation  to 
witness,  964.  Invitation  to  witness  not  a  member, 
965,  966.  Obligation  of  witness,  967.  Of  return  of 
constructive  service,  1017.  Of  petition  for  change  of 
venue,  1120.  Of  petition  to  reinstate  expelled  mem- 
ber, 1160.     For  closing  R.  Lodges,  1448. 

FORMS,  BOOK  OF.    See  Supplies. 


391  Good  Standing. 


FRAUD.  In  acquiring  membership,  148,  177,  178,  229,  341, 
793.  Fraudulent  ballot,  342  to  346,  incl.  To  set  aside 
an  election  must  have  affected  result,  660,  670.  Ob- 
taining aid  fraudulently,  779,  780,  785.  Fraudulently 
obtaining  and  using  P.  W.,  780.  Obtaining  money  by, 
800  to  801. 

FUNDS.  Oenerally.  Treasurer  custodian  of,  496.  Use 
of  in  private  business  is  offense,  816.  Under  control 
of  G.  Lodge,  1360.  How  disbursed,  1361.  Legislation 
as  to  trust  funds,  1363,  1364.  Local  and  general  laws 
concerning,  1371.  Bills  paid  without  reference  to 
Finance  Committee,  1372.  What  are  legitimate  ap- 
propriations, 1373  to  1381,  incl.  What  are  not  legiti- 
mate appropriations,  1382,  1883.    How  disbursed,  1399. 

General  Funds.  For  what  used,  1354,  1384,  1385,  1386, 
1387.  Appropriated  for  flowers,  1365.  Fraternal  pa- 
pers paid  for,  1370. 

Special  Funds.  Receipts  from  socials  and  entertain- 
ments, 66.  Part  of  dues  set  off  to,  1319.  Kept  separ- 
ate, 1339.  For  what  used,  1354.  Contingent  fund, 
1348  to  1353,  inch,  1365.  Nurse  fund,  1365,  1366.  Gen- 
eral laws  applicable  to,  1388  to  1398,  incl. 

FUNERALS.    1589  to  1604,  incl. 

FUNERAL  CEREMONY.    Form  of,  1603. 

GAMBLER  AND  GAMBLING.  Ineligible  to  member- 
ship, 188.  Subject  to  expulsion,  789,  809.  Playing 
cards,  820. 

GAVEL.     All  present  should  obey,  102. 

GENERAL  CONSENT.  Business  may  be  done  by,  with- 
out formality  of  vote,  1256. 

GENERAL  AND  SPECIAL  RELIEF.    1606  to  1616,  incl. 

GOOD  CHARACTER.  How  determined,  223.  Candi- 
date must  have,  224. 

GOOD  OF  THE  ORDER.  Business  may  be  transacted 
under,  107. 

GOOD  STANDING.  Of  brothers  in  Subordinate  Lodge 
necessary,  226,  227.    What  is,  300,  301,  302,  303. 


Grand  Lodge.  392 

GRAND  LODGE.  Powers  over  Rebekah  charters,  3,  4, 
6,  7,  8,  9,  19. 

GRAND  MASTER.  May  not  restore  charter  to  sus- 
pended Lodge,  when,  10.  May  institute  R.  Lodges, 
when,  19.  Duty  and  privilege  to  install  officers,  599. 
Takes  chair  of  Noble  Grand,  when,  600,  628,  629.  May 
visit  Assembly,  1499,  1502.  Makes  Rebekah  Term 
P.  W.,  1533. 

GRAND    REPRESENTATIVE.      May    visit    Assembly, 

1502.     Elected  Delegate,  1503. 

GRAND  SECRETARY.  Impression  of  seal  deposited 
with,  12).     May  not  ex  officio  visit  Assembly,  1500. 

GRIEVANCE.     See  Complaint. 

GROG-SHOP.     See  Saloon  and  Saloon-keepers. 

HALF  BREEDS.    221,  247. 

HALL  OF  LODGE.  Funds  appropriated  for  piano,  1384. 
Rent  received  for  goes  to  General  Fund,  1385.  Money 
invested  in,  when,  1405.  May  be  owned  jointly  with 
church,  1407. 

HAND.   Loss  of,  does  not  disqualify  for  Noble  Grand,  559. 

HISTORY.    Of  the  Order,  1752,  1753. 

HOLIDAYS.     Meetings  falling  on,  124. 

HOMES.  Generally  and  Orphans'  Home,  1617  to  1656, 
inc.  Old  Folks'  Home.  1657  to  1660,  incl.  Rules  and 
Regulations  for,  1661.     By-Laws  for,  1662. 

HONORARY  MEMBERSHIP.     Not  permitted,  184. 

HONORS.  Of  the  Degree.  Given  to  installing  officer, 
603,  697,  702,  705. 

Of  Office  in  Assembly.  Vice-President  not  entitled 
to,  when,  1529. 

Of  Office  in  R.  L.  Excuse  for  absence  must  be  of 
record  to  entitle  absentee  to  honors,  379.  When  ab- 
sence counted  for,  379,  380,  556,  557.  Officer  not  en- 
titled to  till  end  of  term,  381,  382,  446,  508,  509,  554, 
566.  Service  for  a  majority  of  nights  necessary,  383, 
410,  411,  508,  509,  511,  554,  566.  Rank  attained  only 
by  service,  386.    Rank  not  conferred  by  resolution,  504. 


393  Initials. 

By  officers  of  consolidated  Lodges,  510.  By  officers 
of  new  Lodges,  564.  Officers  of  expelled  or  suspended 
Lodge  not  entitled  to,  512.  Resignation  forfeits,  when, 
513.  Election  and  installation  necessary,  prerequisites, 
553,  573,  627.  P.  Vice  Grand  of  another  Lodge,  563. 
Honors  lost  by  resignation  not  regained,  how,  565. 
No  honors  to  Trustees,  574.  Service  to  fill  vacancy 
entitles  to,  when,  575. 

HOTEL.     Improper  place  for  meeting,  125. 

ILLITERACY.     Does  not  disqualify  for  membership,  142. 

ILLEGALITY.  Of  certain  acts  of  Lodge,  37  to  51,  incl. 
Of  assemblages,  Zl ,  826.  Of  initiation,  167,  171,  173, 
174,  175,  176,  177,  179,  228,  229,  827.  Of  membership 
acquired  by  card,  348. 

INCORPORATION.  Provides  for  the  election  of  Trus- 
tees, 523. 

INDEBTEDNESS.  No  excuse  for  refusing  W.  D.  C, 
1190.  For  dues  not  collectable  after  granting  W.  D. 
C.  unless,  1229. 

INDIAN.  Quarter  Indian  ineligible  to  membership,  138, 
139,  221. 

INDISPENSIBLE  NUMBER.  To  constitute  Rebekah 
Lodge,  1.     May  retain  charter,  13. 

INDORSEMENT.  Card  may  not  be  renewed  by,  726. 
Visiting  card  may  not  be  extended  by,  1259.  Attentive 
benefits  endorsed  on  visiting  card,  1257.  Rejection 
may  not  be  endorsed  on  W.  D.  C,  272.  On  card  of 
insane  member,  1261.  On  official  receipt  of  member 
under  suspension,  1336. 

INFIDEL.    See  Atheist. 

INFORMALITY.     When  it  is  considered  waived,  1003. 

INFORMANT.  Name  of  kept  secret,  889.  May  not  be 
on  Prosecuting  Committee,  908. 

INFORMATION.  Penalty  for  making  false  information, 
1113. 

INITIALS.  See  Emblems.  "Of"  should  be  omitted 
from,  1686. 


Initiation.  394 

INITIATION.  Not  void  for  want  of  quorum,  when,  86, 
87.  Member  may  not  enter  nor  retire  during,  97.  Of 
former  members,  145,  146,  147.  Fee  must  be  paid  be- 
fore, 157.  Of  one  under  age  not  permitted,  160.  Ille- 
gal without  fault  of  candidate,  167,  171,  173,  174,  175, 
176,  179,  228,  229.  Language  of,  168.  May  be  at 
special  meeting,  319.  Postponement  of,  347.  Must  be 
in  Lodge  electing,  268,  350,  370,  375. 

INSANE.  Petition  and  initiation  of  lunatic,  148.  Insane 
member  may  not  be  dropped,  769.  May  not  be  put 
on  trial,  848.  Cannot  visit  Lodge,  1261.  Visiting 
card  to,  1261. 

INSTALLATION.  Of  members  not  qualified,  void,  577. 
General  and  local  laws  governing  in  Rebekah  Lodges, 
596  to  645,  inclu.  Charges  of  misconduct  do  not  post- 
pone installation,  613,  639.  By  proxy,  614.  Form  of, 
625,  626,  644.  To  fill  vacancy,  632.  May  not  be  held 
earlier  than  first  meeting  of  term,  633.  Public  installa- 
tion, 647  to  650,  incl. 

INSTALLING  OFFICER.  Who  may  be,  19,  601,  608. 
Who  given  preference,  607,  631,  716.  In  an  emer- 
gency, 593,  604.  Officer  installed  by  one  not  author- 
ized, 594.  If  only  one  qualified  installing  officer  be 
present,  installation  should  be  deferred,  609.  May 
not  wear  P.  M.  Uniform,  612.  May  declare  vacancy 
when,  615,  616,  617,  635.  Dispensation  granted  by,  642. 
Compensation  of,  643. 

INSTITUTION.  By  R.  Assembly  not  authorized,  6.  7. 
Instituting  Officer.  Who  may  be,  15.  P.  Noble  Grand 
may  be,  501.  Instituting  officer  and  assistant  must 
be  member  of  R.  Lodge,  696.  Is  Lodge  Deputy,  703. 
Authority  of,  704.  Authority  ceases  with  expiration 
of  Grand  Master's  term  of  office,  708. 

INSTRUCTORS.    Chief  of,  1538. 

INSURE.    See  Insurance. 

INSURANCE.  Of  Lodge  property,  537,  538,  686.  Mem- 
ber not  to  engage  in,  when,  791.  Laws  of  Order  re- 
lating to  life  and  accident  insurance,  1663  to  1669,  incl. 

INTEREST.  Of  invested  funds  must  be  at  a  reasonable 
rate,  1403. 


395  Jurisdiction. 

INTERPRETER.    When  allowed  at  a  trial,  971. 

INTOXICATING  DRINKS.  Excluded  from  Lodge  room, 
53.     Not  permitted  at  Festivity,  58.     See  Liquors. 

INTOXICATION.  Of  Representative,  790.  Evidence  of, 
982.  Penalty  for,  1089,  1090,  1091,  1092.  Two  or  more 
acts  of,  in  complaint,  how  dealt  with,  and  how 
charged,  911. 

INTRODUCTION.     Of   members   elected   by   card,   352. 

Of  vistors  without  examination,  701.    See  Visiting  and 

Visitors. 
INVESTIGATING  COMMITTEE.    See  Committee. 

INVESTMENT.  Must  be  for  security,  34.  In  whose 
name  made,  536.  What  are,  how  made  and  how 
changed,  1400  to  1408,  incl.  Trustees  may  not  draw 
funds  for,  527,  528.  In  life  insurance  not  permitted, 
1401.  In  what  made,  1404,  1405,  1407.  Undoubted  se- 
curities defined,  1408. 

I.  O.  O.  F.     "Of"  should  be  omitted  from,  1686. 

IRREGULARITIES.    Without  fraud,  178. 

JAPANESE.     Ineligible  to  membership,  140. 

J.  B.  TURNER  LODGE  CASE.    See  Turner,  J.  B. 

JEOPARDY.  Once  in,  863  to  870,  incl.,  987,  1027,  1029. 
In  civil  courts,  993.    See  Plea. 

JEWELS.  Description  of  R.  Lodge  Jewels,  732.  Descrip- 
tion of  Lodge  and  Assembly  Jewels,  1670,  1671.  Laws 
relating  to  use  of,  1672  to  1680,  incl. 

JOURNALS  OF  G.  L.  Of  Rebekah  Assembly,  1531. 
Printed  Journals  declared  to  be  authority,  1706.  Dis- 
tribution of,  1707. 

JUDGMENT.    How  reached,  1020,  1048  to  1054,  incl. 

JUNIOR  PAST  NOBLE  GRAND.    See  Past  Officers. 

JURISDICTION  TERRITORIAL  OF  R.  L.  232,266,269. 
Of  Lodges  in  Trials.  One  Lodge  may  not  try  the  mem- 
ber of  another  Lodge,  46.  General  and  local  laws 
governing,  871  to  883,  incl.  Filing  of  charges  juris- 
dictional, 918,  921. 


Keys.  396 

KEYS.     Failure  to  send  keys,  finable  when,  471. 

KINGS  DAUGHTERS.  Appropriations  to  not  permis- 
sible, 1383.    P.  20. 

LANGUAGE.  In  which  a  Lodge  works,  42,  168.  Of 
Lodge  records,  115,  123.  Of  candidate  for  degree,  168. 
Transcripts  of  record  furnished  in  English  language, 
115.  English  language  always  permissible  in  address- 
ing any  Lodge  orally  or  in  writing,  1030.  Language 
of  W.  D.  C,  1245. 

LAWS  OF  THE  ORDER.  Laws,  constructions  and 
amendments,  1443,  1444.  Noble  Grand  construes,  1468. 
When  General  Laws  take  effect,  1605.  Governing  Re- 
bekah  Lodges,  1443,  1444.  General  Laws,  when  they 
take  effect,  1605.  Printed  Journals  declared  to  be  au- 
thority, 1706.  Latest  decision  prevails,  1711.  See 
Local  Legislation. 

LEASE.  See  Renting. 

LECTURES.    1701,  1702. 

LEGISLATION.     Legislative  powers  of  Lodges,  23. 
Corntnittee  on.     See  Committee. 

LETTER.  Circular  letter  improper  without,  45.  Neg- 
lecting to  answer  a  letter  of  Lodge,  not  contempt, 
796,  953.  Dues  sent  by  registered  letter  at  sender's 
risk,  1335. 

LIBRARIES.  Appropriations  for,  28.  Members  may  not 
be  taxed  for,  28. 

LIFE  INSURANCE.  Lodge  may  not  expend  money  for, 
1401.    See  Insurance. 

LIMB.    Loss  of,  154,  155. 

LIMITATIONS.  Charges  barred  by  lapse  of  time,  856 
to  862,  incl. 

LIQUORS.  Excluded  from  Lodge  room,  53.  Not  per- 
mitted at  festivity,  58.  Laws  of  the  Order  relating 
to,  1681,  1682. 

LIQUOR  TRAFFIC.     See  Saloon. 

LOAN.  Must  be  for  security,  29.  Lodge  may  secure  by 
selling  bonds,  34. 


397  Member. 

LOCAL  LEGISLATION.  Election  of  officers  controlled 
by,  27.  As  to  financial  affairs  of  Lodge,  29.  Salaries 
subject  for,  Z2.  As  to  residence,  158.  Authority  of 
Lodge  Deputy  depends  upon,  700.  Reinstatement  is  a 
question  for,  1133,  1134.     Controls  fees,  1295. 

LODGE.  Under  Dispensation.  Membership  in,  termin- 
ates upon  refusal  of  charter,  1187. 

LODGE  DEPUTY.  See  Deputies  of  the  Grand 
Master. 

LODGE  ROOM.  May  not  be  used  for  conferring  unau- 
thorized degrees,  778,  1842,  1843. 

LOTTERY.     Not  permitted,  44,  54. 

LUNATIC.    See  Insane. 

MAGAZINE.     Authority  for,  1705. 

MALICIOUS.     False  and  malicious  complaints,  1113. 

MARRIAGE.  Unmarried  woman  eligible,  when,  224,  261 
to  265,  incl. 

MEETING.     Of  Assembly.     See  Sessions. 

Of  B.  Lodge.  Regular,  not  interrupted  by  festivity,  57. 
Regular,  not  less  than  two  each  month,  80.  Must  be 
fixed  by  By-Laws,  80.  Who  may  be  present,  81,  82,  83. 
Opening  and  closing  of,  84,  88  to  96,  incl.  Meeting 
dispersed  by  alarm,  94.  Entering  and  retiring,  97  to 
100,  incl.  When  it  begins,  102.  N.  G.  always  in  con- 
trol, 102,  103.  Report  of  committee  when  before,  104. 
Lodge  may  be  protected  against  intrusion,  110.  Names 
of  those  present  need  not  be  recorded,  112.  When 
held,  124,  125,  126.  Where  held,  127,  128,  129.  Special, 
how  called,  130,  131,  121,  389,  460.  Petition  not  re- 
ceived at  special  meeting,  315,  nor  balloted  upon,  316. 
Election  of  officers  not  had  at  special  meeting,  582, 
592. 

MEMBER.  Of  Assembly.  Who  are,  1493,  1498.  Repre- 
sentatives to,  1497,  1498.  Legislative  members,  1510, 
1512. 

Of  B.  Lodge.  May  not  use  name  of  Order  or  emblems, 
71.  Qualifications  for  prescribed  by  S.  G.  L.,  135,  136, 
143.  No  limit  to  age,  144.  Privileges  of  membership, 
161,  181,  incl.     May  join  any  other  Order,  162.     Sign- 


Member.  398 

ing  of  Constitution  necessary  to  complete,  172,  185, 
186.  May  not  form  independent  organization,  when, 
180.  When  and  how  acquired,  182,  186,  incl.  Who 
eligible,  224  to  265,  incl.  How  transferred,  225.  No 
person  may  belong  to  two  Lodges,  228.  Qualifica- 
tions of  brothers  for,  374.  Every  member  must  vote, 
447.  Entering  prohibited  occupation,  783,  787,  792,  802. 
May  not  engage  in  life  or  accident  insurance,  when, 
791.  Rights  of  pending  charges,  926.  Should  serve  on 
committee  when  appointed,  1688. 

MEMBERSHIP.   In  Assembly.     Qualifications  for,  1493, 
1494,  1495,  1498.     Assembly  Degree,  1496. 
In  B.  Lodge.     Qualifications  of  brothers  for,  374,  75(1 
How  voluntarily   terminated,    1166,    1181.     Refusal   o£ 
charter  by  G.  L.  terminates,  1187. 

MEMORIAL  DAY.     1683  to  1685,  incl. 

MILEAGE  AND  PER  DIEM.    Of  officers  and  members, 
1552,  1563. 

MINISTERS.     Must  pay  admission  fees  in  Illinois,  1292. 

MINUTES.    See  Records. 

MISCELLANEOUS.    1686  to  1711,  incl. 

MISCONDUCT   OF   OFFICER.     How   punishable,   404. 
Is  ofYense,  782.     How  to  bring  charges  for,  893. 

MISTAKE.     In  records  corrected,  HI.     Of  officers,  417. 
In  voucher.  Treasurer  need  not  pay,  495. 

MODEL  CODE.     Of  By-Laws  for  Rebekah  Lodge,  1484. 

MORAL  CHARACTER.     How  determined,  223.     Candi- 
date must  have,  224. 

MOTHER.     When   eligible,   224,   242,  243,   254,  259,   260. 
Step-mother  ineligible  when,  249. 

MOVABLE.     Lodges  not  permitted,  129. 

MUTILATION.     Of  records  not  permitted,  119. 

NAME.     Of  Order.     Used  without  authority,  799.     May 
not  be  used  to  conduct  raffle  or  lottery,  44.     May  not 
be  used  in  connection  with  Sunday  concert,  65. 
Of  Assembly.     1485. 


399  Nurses. 

Of  R.Lodge.  1.  Of  living  person  may  not  be  used,  3,  16. 
Change  of,  18.  Not  to  be  used  by  independent  organi- 
zation, when,  180. 

Of  Person.    Change  of,  181. 

NEGLECT.  Of  official  duty,  396,  399.  By  Lodge  Deputy 
ground  for  removal,  707. 

NEW  TRIAL.    Allowed  when,  1018,  1065,  1098,  1106. 

NOBLE  GRAND.  Always  in  control  of  meeting,  102,  103. 
Calls  special  meeting  when,  126,  130,  389.  Inspects 
ballot,  323,  324,  329,  350.  Delivers  P.  N.  G.  charge 
when,  391.  Executive  Officer,  415,  440.  Not  required 
to  surrender  chair  to  team,  378,  392.  Constitutional 
duties  of,  433.  Votes  when,  433.  What  control  over 
funds,  435.  Cannot  be  Treasurer,  435.  Excuse  for 
absence  to  whom  made,  436.  Must  put  question,  437. 
Custodian  of  Ritual,  439.  May  put  P.  Noble  Grand  in 
chair,  441.  Temporary  absence  of,  442,  444.  Appoints 
appointive  officers,  433,  445.  May  be  elected  Secre- 
tary when,  472.  Not  expedient  to  be  Trustee,  524. 
Who  eligible  to  be,  546,  552,  560,  561.  Loss  of  right 
hand  does  not  disqualify,  559.  When  all  qualified 
members  decline,  561,  570,  589.  Who  eligible  in  new 
or  revived  Lodge,  568.  When  defendant  in  discipline 
case,  892,  906. 

NOMINATION.  For  office,  when  and  how  made,  580. 
May  be  and  how  declined,  584.  Absent  member  may 
be  nominated,  584.  Candidate  not  properly  in,  651,  657, 
661,  664,  665. 

NON-CONTRIBUTING.  No  such  members  in  R.  Lodge, 
1302,  1303. 

NOTES.  Promissory  notes  may  not  be  received  for  de- 
grees, 1297.  Member  not  in  good  standing  while 
Lodge  holds  his  note  for  dues,  1313. 

NOTICE.  Written  by  Secretary,  470.  Of  arrearages  for 
dues,  747,  748,  749,  755,  756,  757,  759,  766,  767,  768. 
Form  of  notice  of  arrears,  758. 

NURSES  AND  NURSING.  See  General  and  Special 
Funds,  1354  to  1371,  incl.  Night  watch  allowed  wher^ 
1367. 


Obligation.  400 

OBLIGATION.  At  installation,  by  whom  administered, 
608,  630.     Part  of  ceremony  at  installation,  when,  627. 

OBJECTS   AND    PURPOSES.      Of   the   R.    Lodge,   134, 

Of  R.  Assembly,  1488. 
ODD  FELLOWS'  LEAGUE.     May  solicit  contributions, 

1615. 
OF.     1686. 

OFFENSE.   By  Officers.    782.     Use  of  seal  on  charts,  781. 
By  Members.    Acquiring  membership  by  fraud,  148.   Dis- 
cipline for  offenses  committee,  772i.     What  are,  774  to 
818,  inch,  934.     What  are  not,  819  to  838,  incl.     Com- 
mitted before  becoming  a  member,  824. 

OFFICE.  No  member  may  hold  two,  165,  413,  416,  435, 
492.  Appointive  or  elective  qualifies  for  Vice  Grand, 
462,  463,  464.  Eligibility  to  office,  546,  567,  568.  Ar- 
rearages for  dues,  549.  May  be  related  to  each  other, 
555.  Member  may  not  be  compelled  to  accept,  582. 
Cannot  be  installed  by  proxy,  614.  Dues  must  be  paid 
before  installation,  595,  622. 

OFFICER.  Generally.  Should  be  furnished  with  regalia 
and  jewels,   1691. 

In  Assembly.  Who  are,  1507.  May  hold  office  in  R. 
Lodge,  1508.  Right  to  vote  for  not  restricted,  1510, 
1511.     Residence  of,  1513.     Appointive,  who  are,  1539. 

InR.  Lodge.  Who  are,  376.  Title  of  Secretaries,  Z77. 
Need  not  give  up  station  to  staff  worker,  378.  Past 
N.  G.  is  not,  387.  Suspension  of  vacates  office,  405. 
Lodge  must  furnish  jewels  and  regalia  to,  409.  Duties 
of  generally,  414.  Executive,  who  are,  415.  Lodge 
liable  for  mistakes  of,  when,  417.  How  removed,  418. 
Owe  same  obedience  to  law  as  non-official  members, 
419.  Can  not  fill  station  by  proxy,  420.  May  not 
have  parts  of  work  printed,  421.  Chaplain,  422.  De- 
gree Master  is  not,  426.  Room  Warden  or  Steward, 
427,  448.  Vacancies,  how  filled,  429.  Rights  of  offi- 
cers, 430.  Salaries,  431,  432.  Appointive,  how  ap- 
pointed, 433,  445,  451,  469.  Duties  of  Subordinate  Offi- 
cers, 505,  506,  507.  Suspended  or  expelled  Lodge  can- 
not elect,  658.  May  not  use  name  in  private  business, 
how,  797. 


401  Payments. 

OFFICIAL  INSTRUCTOR.  See  Chief  of  Instruc- 
tors. 

OFFICIAL  MISCONDUCT.  See  Misconduct  of  Offi- 
cers. 

OFFICIAL  CERTIFICATE.    See  Cards. 

OFFICIAL  VISIT.    See  Visit. 

OFF-SET.     See   Set-off. 

ONCE  IN  JEOPARDY.    See  Plea. 

ORDER  OF  BUSINESS.  May  be  regulated  by  Lodges, 
106.  In  Rebekah  Assembly,  1566.  Proposed  for  Re- 
bekah  Lodges,  1483. 

ORPHANS.  Education  of  not  "charity,"  but  legal  obli- 
gation, 1647. 

OUTSIDE  GUARDIAN.  Must  be  member  of  Lodge, 
426.  Duty  of  at  the  door,  507.  Admitting  one  not 
qualified  to  ante-room,  886. 

PAPER.  Lodge  may  pay  for,  for  members,  when,  1370. 
Press  recommended,  1703.     Authority  for,  1705. 

PARAPHERNALIA.     See  Regalia. 

PARLIAMENTARY  LAW.    See  Robert. 

PASSWORDS  OF  TERM.     Obtaining  and  using  fraudu- 
lently, 780,  1692.     Sent  out  by  Secretary  of  Assembly, 
1533.     Generally,  1712  to  1738,  incl. 
Annual  P.  W.     Obtaining  and  using  fraudulently,   780. 

PAST  OFFICERS.  Junior  Past  Noble  Grand  not  an 
officer,  387,  412.  Junior  Past  Noble  Grand  may  be 
elected  Delegate,  387.  Duties  of  P.  N.  G.  when  Noble 
Grand  is  re-elected,  388.  Duties  of  Junior  Past  Noble 
Grand,  500  to  504,  inc.  Any  member  may  act  as  P.  No- 
ble Grand  when,  502.  P.  N.  G.  not  created  by  resolu- 
tion, 504.  Past  Noble  Grand  cannot  wear  badge,  736, 
737.  Not  entitled  to  trial  by  Past  Officers,  854.  Past 
Noble  Grand,  1739  to  1742,  incl. 

PAYMENTS.  Made  by  a  member  on  account,  how 
credited,  1290.  Lodge  may  not  refuse  tendered  pay- 
ment on  dues,  1308.     Of  dues  to  whom  made,  1314. 


Pecuniary.  402 

PECUNIARY  AFFAIRS.  Application  for  aid,  47,  48,  49, 
50,  51.  Matter  for  local  legislation,  29.  Between 
members  not  ground  for  charges,  when,  800,  819 
(No.  12)  821,  822,  823,  834,  850,  878,,  879. 

PENALTY.  For  non-payment  of  dues,  See  Dropping. 
Dues  may  not  be  increased  as,  16Z.  No  penalty  with- 
out charges  filed,  918,  921.  How  determined,  1020, 
1038,  1046,  1047,  1073.  May  not  be  inflicted  except  on 
conviction,  1050.  When  it  begins  to  operate,  1051. 
Infliction  of  ends  jurisdiction,  1062,  1063.  Rules  re- 
lating to,  1067  to  1072,  incl.  Duration  of  suspension, 
1073,  1074.  What  are  legal  penalties,  1083  to  1092,  incl. 
Definite  and  alternative,  1093,  1094,  1095. 

PER  DIEM.  Of  officers  and  delegates  to  the  Assembly, 
1552.  Additional  per  diem  of  certain  officers  and  mem- 
bers of  committees,  1563. 

PERMANENT  SECRETARY.    See  Secretary. 

PETITION.  For  Membership.  Evidence  of  former  mem- 
bership, 145.  From  lunatic,  148.  Election  without, 
when  valid,  282.  By  card,  269  to  287,  incl.  As  Ancient 
Odd  Fellow,  288  to  303,  incl.  On  Visiting  Card  or 
Official  Certificate,  304  to  313,  incl.  Form  of,  314. 
Not  received  at  special  meeting,  126,  315,  316,  319,  359. 
By  Odd  Fellows  must  be  accompanied  by  evidence  of 
membership,  322.  When  received  and  acted  upon,  359, 
360.  Withdrawal  of,  361  to  365,  incl.  Rejected,  when 
received,  ZGJ  to  369,  incl. 

PHOTOGRPH.    Of  ofificers  in  robes,  385,  739,  741. 

PHYSICIAN.     Employment  of  by  Lodge,  425,  426. 

PIANO.    General  fund  appropriated  for,  1384. 

PICNIC.     See  Festival. 

PLEA.  Once  in  jeopardy,  867,  868,  869,  870.  Charges 
may  be  too  indefinite  to  require  plea,  917.  Plea  when 
due,  933.  Rules  governing,  954  to  961,  incl.  Mitigating 
circumstances  proved  only  under  "Not  guilty,"  954, 
960.  Plea  of  "Guilty"  may  not  be  made  by  counsel, 
959.     Plea  of  "Guilty,"  effect  of,  955,  956,  960,   1080, 


403  Pros.   Committee. 


1081,  1082.  Counsel  may  appear  before  plea  is  en- 
tered, 958.  Of  acquittal  in  courts,  993.  Petition  for 
change  of  venue  does  not  postpone  plea,  1122. 

POLITICS.  Political  banner  or  demonstration,  40.  Po- 
litical candidate,  41. 

POLYNESIANS.    221. 

POSTPONING.  Of  initiation,  347,  356.  Election  should 
not  be,  582,  585.      Of  trial,  995,  996.    Of  ballot,  351. 

POWERS.  Of  Rebekah  Lodges,  2.  Sections  23  to  36, 
both  inclusive. 

PRAYER.     Meeting  opened  and  closed  by,  88,  89,  90. 

PRESIDENT.  Of  Assembly  does  not  sign  charters,  5. 
May  not  reclaim  charter,  9.  Nor  restore  charter,  11. 
Appoints  Deputy,  when,  684,  685,  727.  Duties,  powers 
and  prerogatives,  1516  to  1527,  incl. 

PRESIDING  OFFICER.  Noble  Grand  is,  433.  Any  P. 
Noble  Grand  may  be  when,  450.  Vice  Grand  is  when, 
456.    Grand  Master  is  when,  600. 

PRESS.     Use  of,  1703. 

PRESUMPTION.     Of  innocense  always  indulged  in,  926. 
PRINTING.     Seal  may  be  printed,  79. 
PRINTING  COMMITTEE.    See  Committee. 
PRIORITY  OF  MOTIONS.    See  Rules  of  Order, 
PROCESSIONS.     Lodge  not  to  join   in  without,  61,  64. 
Oenerally.    1743  to  1751,  incl. 

PROPERTY.  Supervision  of  Grand  Master  over,  1371. 
General  fund  may  be  appropriated  to  protect  rental 
value  of  real  estate,  1386.  Real  estate  of  Subordinate 
may  be  disposed  of  without  consent  of  Grand  Lodge, 
1406. 

PROPOSITION.    See  Petition. 

PROSECUTING  COMMITTEE.  Must  always  be  special 
committee,  519.  Lodge  Deputy  should  not  be  on,  588. 
When  and  by  whom  appointed,  884.  Form  for  ap- 
pointment, 895.  Proceed  ex  parte  897,  898.  May  en- 
gage counsel,  901.     No  appeal  from  its  decisioa,  ^2. 


Pro  Tempore.  404 

Must  secure  evidence,  903.  Informant  may  not  be 
one  of,  908.  One  of  may  not  be  commissioner,  943. 
Duty  of  when  venue  changed,  1117. 

PRO  TEMPORE.  Appointment,  96,  434.  Secretary,  475. 
Lodge  Deputy  may  be  Noble  Grand  pro  tempore,  448. 
Noble  Grand  pro  tern  may  fill  a  vacancy,  449.  Of 
Financial  Committee,  545.   Wear  what  regalia,  733,  734. 

PROTEST.    Against  action  of  Grand  Master,  30,  31. 

PROXY.     Official  station  not  filled  by,  420.     Installation 

by,  614.    Application  for  W.  D.  C,  1225. 
PUBLICATIONS.    1705,  1706,  1707,  1752,  1753. 

QUALIFICATION.  For  Lodge  Deputy.  7\7,  718,  719. 
720,  721. 

For  Membership  in  R.  L.  135  to  160,  incl.  Saloon- 
keepers ineligible.  Sees.  187,  220,  incl.  Who  have, 
224  to  265,  incl.     Of  brothers,  374. 

For  Noble  Grand.  553,  554,  556,  559,  560,  563,  569,  570, 
571,  572,  575,  578,  546. 

For  Vice  Grand.  462,  463,  464,  554,  558,  560,  573,  574, 
576,  579,  546. 

For  other  Office  in  B.  L.        546,  568. 

For  Delegate.        1493. 

Generally.  To  be  present  and  to  participate  in  business 
not  identical,  81. 

QUARANTINE.  Meetings  not  held  during,  honors  of 
office  not  forfeited,  411. 

QUESTION.  Noble  Grand  must  put  every  legitimate 
question,  437.  How  decided  in  Rebekah  Assembly, 
1543. 

QUORUM.   In  R.  Lodge.  1,  80,  84,  85,  86,  87,  109. 

Quorum  broke,  84.  Ascertained  by  roll-call,  85. 
Record  must  show  presence  of,  85.  Lodge  not 
opened  without,  85.  No  business  transacted  with- 
out, 85.  Presence  of  one  qualified  to  preside 
necessary  to  constitute,  85,  1.  Difference  between 
an  apparent  quorum  and  a  real  quorum,  86.  Initiation 
without,  not  fraud,  87,  175.  No  quorum  present,  those 
present  may  organize  informally  for  what  purpose,  95. 


405  Records. 

Small  attendance  does  not  invalidate  proceedings  if  a 
quorum  be  present,  109.  Proper,  but  not  necessary, 
to  record  the  names  of  those  making  a  quorum,  112. 
Of  qualified  members  necessary  to  issue  W.  D.  C, 
1239.       In  R.  Assembly.     1556. 

RACE.     White  person,  221,  222. 

RAFFLES.     Not  permitted,  44,  54. 

REBEKAH  ASSEMBLY.  Cannot  institute  R.  Lodges, 
6,  7.  Nor  revoke  charter,  8.  What  authority  over  R. 
Lodges,  15.  No  other  Rebekah  Grand  Body  author- 
ized, 1486.  Is  subordinate  to  G.  L.,  1487.  Powers 
and  prerogatives  limited,  1489,  1490,  1491.  Who  may 
attend,  1501.  Assembly  Degree,  1496,  1501.  Past 
Grands  in,  1495,  1498,  1506,  1509,  1512. 

REBEKAH  CODE.   Why  not  included  in  this  Work,  1769. 

REBEKAH  DEGREE.  Must  be  conferred  in  Lodge 
electing  candidate,  268,  350,  370,  Z72).  Character  of, 
371.     On  whom  conferred,  375. 

REBEKAH  LODGE.  Two  or  more  organized  by  same 
Subordinate  Lodge,  14.  Authority  of  Assembly  over, 
15.  Powers  of,  23  to  2)6,  both  inclusive.  Have  no 
legislative  functions  except,  23.  Language  of,  42.  May 
not  use  regalia  or  emblems,  or  name  of  Order  when, 
without  dispensation,  71.  May  regulate  its  order  of 
business,  106.  Objects  and  purposes  of,  134.  Inde- 
pendent of  Subordinate,  371,  372. 

RECEIPTS.  Of  the  evening  should  appear  in  minutes, 
118.     None  but  official  receipt  may  be  used,  486. 

RECONSIDERATION.  Of  ballot  for  membership,  340. 
Of  vote  to  reinstate,  1145.  Of  ballot  on  charges  and 
specifications  not  permitted,  1045,  1058,  1066,  both  incl. 
Vote  granting  W.  D.  C.  may  not  be  reconsidered,  1199, 

RECORDING  SECRETARY.    See  Secretaky. 

RECORDS.  Generally.  Member  may  not  be  kept  out 
during  reading  of,  82,  98.  Should  show  quorum 
present,  85.  Of  Lodge  meetings.  111  to  123,  incl.  Not 
to  be  mutilated,  119.  Kept  by  Secretary,  470.  Finan- 
cial records  kept  by  Financial  Secretary,  479.  Language 
of,  1690. 


Refund.  406 

As  to  Charges.  Of  Lodge  trials,  1055  to  1057,  incl. 
REFUND.     Dues  paid  in  advance  refunded  when  W.  D. 
C.  is  granted,  1229. 

REGALIA.  Not  to  be  worn  without  permission,  61,  63, 
64,  71.  Wearing  of  necessary  on  entering  or  retiring, 
97,  98.  Description  of,  732.  Worn  by  pro  tempore 
officers,  733,  734.  General  law  relating  to,  733  to  746, 
incl.    May  not  be  used  publicly  in  drama,  739. 

REHEARING.    See  Nbw  Trial. 

REINSTATEMENT.  Fee  must  be  paid  before,  157.  Of 
members  in  revival  of  Lodge,  163,  164.  Of  member  of 
extinct  Lodge,  166.  Of  saloon-keeper,  199.  Of  ex- 
pelled member,  169.  Of  member  in  Subordinate 
Lodge,  ipso  facto  reinstatement  in  R.  Lodge  when, 
750,  1139.  Reinstatement  on  appeal,  dues  of,  771.  Sus- 
pended member,  1132,  1137.  Is  a  question  for  local 
legislation,  1133,  1134.  Residence  not  material,  1146. 
Of  dropped  members,  1135  to  1149,  incl.  Of  wife, 
1136,  1138,  1141,  1142.  Holder  of  card  cannot  be  re- 
instated, 1148.  Of  expelled  members,  1150  to  1164, 
incl.     Notice  sent  to  other  Lodges  when,  1165. 

REJECTION.  Discretion  of  Lodge  in  rejecting  candi- 
date for  membership,  141.  Grand  Secretary  to  be 
notified  when,  287.  None  without  ballot,  334.  Final 
when,  338,  340.  When  petition  may  be  received,  367 
to  369,  incl. 

RELIEF.    See  General  and  Special  Relief. 

RELIGION.  Sectarianism  and  Christianity,  90.  As  a 
qualification  for  membership,  149,  150. 

REMISSION.  Fines  not  remitted  when,  36.  No  remis- 
sion of  fees  permitted  in  Illinois,  1292.  Bargain  with 
candidate  to  remit  fees,  1291.  Dues  may  not  be  re- 
mitted, 1318,  1227. 

REMOVAL.  From  Office.  How  accomplished,  418. 
Causes  vacancy,  405.     Of  Lodge  Deputy,  707,  709,  721. 

RENTING.     Of  Lodge  property,  24.     For  saloon,  35,  39. 

RENTS.  Placed  in  General  Fund,  and  how  expended, 
1385,  1384. 


407  Revoke. 

RENUNCIATION.  Of  the  Order,  what  is  and  effect  of, 
1185,  1186.  May  be  condoned,  1185.  Preference  for 
a  Masonic  funeral  is  not  renunciation,  1186. 

REPORT.  Of  committees,  104,  105.  Of  Investigating 
Committee,  314,  317,  318,  320.  Annual  and  S.  A.  made 
out  by  Secretary,  470.  Must  be  made  before  installa- 
tion, 618,  619. 

REPRESENTATIVE.  See  Delegate.  Intoxication  of, 
790. 

REPRIMAND.  See  Penalty.  Must  not  be  adminis- 
tered when  notice  of  appeal  is  given,  or  when  appeal 
is  pending,  1051. 

RES  ADJUDICATA.     See  Once  in  Jeopardy.    Plea. 

RESIDENCE.  Of  candidate  for  membership,  158,  224, 
232,  266,  373.  General  law  as  to  territorial  jurisdic- 
tion, 267. 

RESIGNATION.  Of  Office.  Forfeits  honors  when,  513, 
676. 
Of  Membership.  By  saloon-keeper,  206,  207.  To  trans- 
fer membership,  225.  Certificate  of  proper  credentials 
for  membership,  234.  Resigned  member  not  subject 
to  discipline,  843,  1183,  1693.  Inoperative  unless  dues 
paid,  1172.  Takes  effect  at  close  of  meeting,  1173, 
1180,  1214.  Resigned  member  is  Ancient  Odd  Fel- 
low, 1182.  Who  may  resign,  1183,  1250.  Not  ac- 
cepted when,  1184,  1251.  Rules  governing,  1213,  1214, 
1215,  1216,  1219.  Certificate  of  resignation,  1250,  1251, 
1252. 

RETURNS.  Must  be  made  annually  and  semi-annually, 
1410,  1411,  1412,  1413,  1424.  Forms  for,  1414,  1419. 
Made  out  previous  to  installation,  1417.  Signed  and 
sealed,  1418,  1423.  No  changes  after  approval,  1420. 
Past  officers  returned,  1421.  Penalty  for  failure  to 
make,  1426. 

REVERSION.  Grand  Lodge  has  reversionary  interests 
in  Rebekah  Lodge  funds,  1371. 

REVIVAL.     Of  Lodge,  who  becomes  members,  163,  164. 

REVOKE.     Assembly  may  not  revoke  charter,  8. 


Ridgely  P.  A.  408 

RIDGLEY  PROTECTIVE  ASSOCIATION,  1669. 

RIGHT  HAND.     See  Crippled,  Limb. 

RITUAL.  May  not  be  dramatized  or  burlesqued,  59. 
Custodian  of,  439.  Lodge  Deputy  not  entitled  to,  711. 
Parts  of  may  not  be  printed,  421,  111.  Parts  of  not 
to  be  written,  887.     Generally,  1754  to  1759,  incl. 

ROBERT'S  RULES  OF  ORDER.  Governs  parlimentary 
practice  in  Lodges,  1483.     And  in  Assembly,  1566. 

ROLL  CALL.  Quorum  determined  by,  85.  Officer  en- 
tering after,  100.  Roll  Call  Book  no  part  of  records, 
117.  Coming  in  after,  399,  400.  In  Assembly,  1544, 
1545. 

ROOM  WARDEN.     Not  an  officer,  427. 

RUBBER  STAMP.     Fac-simile  signature,  1217,  1218. 

RULES  OF  ORDER.  For  Rebekah  Lodges,  1483.  For 
Assembly,  1566. 

SABBATH.     See  Sunday. 

SALARY.  Matter  for  local  legislation,  32.  Of  officers, 
431,  432,  470.    Of  Secretary,  470. 

SALOON.     Lodge  property  rented  for,  39. 

SALOON-KEEPER.  Sections  187,  220,  incl.  May  avoid 
expulsion  how,  198.  Woman  saloon-keeper,  233. 
Daughter  of,  248.  Becoming  is  an  offense,  787,  792, 
802,  841.  Soldier  in  canteen  is  not  liable  to  penalty, 
788.     Subject  to  discipline,  841,  842. 

SCHOOLS  OF  INSTRUCTION.    Who  holds,  1538. 

SEAL.  Inscription  of,  17.  Provisions  relating  to  Lodge 
seal,  Ti  to  79,  incl.  Use  of  and  custodian,  476.  Use 
of  on  chart,  781. 

SECRET  WORK.     See  Work. 

SECRETARY.  0/  B.  Lodge,  Recording.  Alone  is  au- 
thorized to  use  seal,  IT,  78,  475.  Must  keep  accurate 
records,  116.  Should  have  records  present  every 
meeting,  122.  Title  of,  377,  473.  Two  offices  may 
be  consolidated  when,  413.  Constitutional  duties  of, 
470.     Compensation  of,  470.     May  be  fined  when,  471. 


409  Soliciting. 

Is  a  ministerial  officer,  474.  Custodian  of  seal,  476. 
Assists  in  caring  for  sick  when,  477.  Secretary  pro 
tempore,  475.  Duty  of  Secretary  of  Subordinate 
Lodge,  478.  Must  not  be  Trustee,  524.  May  be  the 
Lodge  Deputy,  710. 

Financial.  May  not  use  seal,  78.  Title  of,  377,  473,  481. 
Two  offices  consolidated  when,  413.  Constitutional 
provisions  relating  to,  479.  When  elected,  479.  Gives 
bond,  479.  Keeps  financial  records,  479.  Shortage 
in  accounts  when  not  embezzlement,  480.  Form  of 
bond,  482.  Should  not  pay  money  to  Treasurer  unless 
Treasurer  has  given  bond,  484.  May  correct  error  in 
member's  account,  485.  Shall  use  none  but  official 
receipt,  486.  Must  send  notices  of  arrears,  487,  489. 
May  correct  errors,  488.  Must  not  be  Trustee,  524. 
Use  of  funds  by,  in  private  business,  816. 

Of  Assembly.  Does  not  sign  charters,  5.  Duties,  pow- 
ers and  prerogatives  of,  1531  to  1536,  incl. 

SECRETARY  PERMANENT.    See  Secretary,  Finan- 
cial. 

SECURITIES.     For  loans,   29.     Treasurer   custodian   of, 
496. 

SERVICE.     Of  Citation  or  Summons.     See  Citation. 

SESSIONS.     Of  Assembly.      Regular    when    held,    1540. 
Special,  when  held,  and  how  called,  1541,  1542. 

SET  OFF.     Against  dues,  760,  761,  1320. 

SEX.     No  distinction  as  to  in  loss  of  membership,   1131. 

SICK  BENEFITS.     May  not  be  paid,   1354,   1355,   1356, 
1357,  1358,  1359,  1361. 

SICKNESS.     As  an  excuse,  See  Excuse. 

SIGNATURE.       To  Constitution.        See    Constitution. 
To  card,  see  Card. 

SINGLE.     See  Marriage. 

SISTER.      When    eligible,    224,    242,    243,    244,    254,    255, 
259,  260. 

SIXTY  YEARS  OLD.     See  Non-contributing  Member. 

SMOKING.     1455. 


Southern  Cards.  410 


SOLDIER.     Doing  duty  in  canteen,  788. 

SOLICITING.       Of  members  permitted,  161.     See   Can- 
vassing, Insurance. 

SOUTHERN  CARDS.     Must  be  recognized,  1223. 

SPECIAL  DEPUTIES.     See    Deputies   of  the   Grand 
Master. 

SPECIAL  FUNDS.    See  Funds. 

SPECIAL  MEETINGS.    See  Meetings. 

SPECIAL  RELIEF.     See  General  and  Special  Relief. 

SPECIAL  SESSIONS.    See  Sessions. 

SPECIFICATIONS.     See  Charges. 

STAFF.    See  Team. 

STANDING.    See  Good  Standing. 

STANDING  COMMITTEES.    See  Committee. 

STATE  OF  THE  ORDER.     See   Committee. 

STATUTE  OF  LIMITATIONS.  Does  not  apply  in  Odd 
Fellowship,  860. 

STAY  OF  PROCEEDINGS.     See  Supersedeas. 

STENOGRAPHER.     Must  be  member  of  Order,  907. 

STEWARD.     Not  an  officer,  427. 

SUBORDINATE.     Definition  of,  1687. 

SUBORDINATE  BODIES.     Definition  of,  1687. 

SUBORDINATE  LODGE.  May  organize  two  or  more 
R.  Lodges,  14.  Good  standing  of  brothers  is  neces- 
sary, 226,  227.  Duty  of  Secretary  of,  478.  Past  offi- 
cers of,  514.  Member  of  dropped  in  Subordinate, 
loses  standing  in  R.  Lodge,  750. 

SUBSTITUTE.    See  Proxy. 

SUIT  AT  LAW.  How  brought  for  Lodge,  20,  21.  How 
brought  against  Lodge,  23.  By  one  Lodge  against 
another,  33.  How  brought,  534,  and  how  defended, 
535.  Commencing  suit  not  an  offense  when,  794,  880. 
Concerning  grievances  connected  with  Odd  Fellow- 
ship, 871. 


411  Term. 

SUMMONS.  Issued  by  Secretary,  470.  Appearance  cures 
defect  in,  937. 

SUPERSEDEAS.  Writ  of,  1051,  1053.  When  issued, 
1055. 

SUNDAY.  Concert  may  not  be  given  on,  65.  Anniver- 
sary on,  69.  Meeting  may  not  be  held  on,  124.  Meet- 
ing of  committee  on,  520. 

SUPPLIES.  Sale  of  unauthorized  chart,  774,  781.  Print- 
ing and  circulating  forms  and  ceremonies  and  sup- 
plies, 810.  May  be  furnished  by  R.  Assembly,  1492. 
Sale  of  by  Secretary  of  Assembly  authorized,  1532. 
Applications  for  membership,  1710.  Generally,  1760 
to  1771,  incl. 

SUPREME  BEING.  Belief  in,  prerequisite  to  member- 
ship, 230,  235. 

SURRENDER.   Charter  may  not  be  surrendered  when,  13. 

SUSPENDED  LODGE.  Authority  of  Grand  Master 
over,  10.     Initiation  by  cannot  be  legalized,  179. 

SUSPENDED  MEMBER.  When  eligible  to  membership, 
236.  Is  subject  to  discipline,  839,  846.  Privileges  of, 
1075,  1076. 

SUSPENSION  OF  MEMBER.  Of  another  jurisdiction 
not  admitted  except,  156.  For  non-payment  of  dues. 
See  Dropping.  Notice  of  to  other  Lodges,  1112. 
Temporary  only,   1132. 

SUSPENSION  FROM  OFFICE.    Vacates  office,  405. 

SYRIAN.    Eligible  to  membership,  222. 

TEAM.  Ofificer  cannot  compel  Lodge  officer  to  vacate 
station,  378,  392,  506.  Officer  in  must  be  qualified  to 
fill  office,  384,  393.  May  not  give  exhibition  drill,  385, 
nor  have  photographs  taken,  385,  739,  741,  849. 

TELLERS.    Candidate  should  not  be,  591. 

TEMPORARY  ABSENCE.     Of  Noble  Grand,  442,  444. 

TENDER.    Of  dues,  770. 

TERM.  Lodge  may  have  six  months  term,  548.  Annual 
and  semi-annual,   1409. 


Term  P.  W.  412 

TERM  P.  W.    See  Passwords. 

TERRITORIAL  JURISDICTION.  Of  G.  Lodge,  19,  232. 
Of  R.  Lodges,  local  law,  266.    General  law,  267. 

TEST  OATH.     Not  permitted,  1783. 

TESTIMONY.     See  Evidence. 

TIE  VOTE.    See  Vote.    Tie  Vote. 

TRANSFER.     Of  membership,  225. 

TRANSFER  CERTIFICATE.    See  1289. 

TREASURER.  When  elected,  installed,  give  bond,  keeps 
funds,  pays  orders,  keeps  accounts,  makes  financial 
report,  490.  What  is  embezzlement,  491,  837.  Cannot 
be  Secretary,  492.  Gives  receipts,  494.  Treasurer's 
bond,  493,  497,  498,  499.  May  refuse  to  pay  order 
when,  495.  Custodian  of  securities  and  funds,  496. 
Must  not  be  Trustee,  524.  Use  of  funds  by  in  private 
business,  816.  Term  report  examined,  1422.  Of  R. 
Assembly,   duties   of,    1537. 

TRIAL.  A  member's  right  to  trial,  844  to  855,  incl.,  1106. 
Postponement  of,  995,  996.  Trial  proper,  when  held, 
1020.  Had  only  on  regular  or  specially  called  meeting, 
1022.  When  a  member  may  be  tried,  1023,  1024.  What 
members  admitted,  1025.  Charges  not  amended  when, 
1026.  Had  in  open  Lodge,  1028.  Language  of,  1030. 
Conduct  of  Noble  Grand,  1033.  The  argument,  1034 
to  1036,  incl.  The  judgment,  1048  to  1054,  incl.  The 
record,  1055  to  1057,  incl.  Error  and  fraud,  1058  to 
1061,  incl.  Reconsideration,  1060,  1062  to  1066,  incl. 
The  penalty,  1067  to  1072,  incl.  Appeals,  1007  to  1011, 
incl.     Suspended  by  petition  for  change  of  venue,  1116. 

TRUSTEES.  Suits  at  law  brought  how,  20,  21.  Proper 
defendants  in  suit  against  Lodge,  22.  Chairman  of 
custodian  of  Treasurer's  bond,  493,  529.  Election  and 
duties  of,  521  to  538,  incl.  Equitable  Trustees,  522. 
Must  be  elected  in  compliance  with  G.  L.  charter,  523. 
What  officers  should  not  be,  and  what  must  not  be 
Trustees,  524.  Term  begins  when,  524.  Tie  vote  in 
election  of,  525.  How  removed  from  office,  526.  May 
not  draw  funds,  527.     Deposits  of  funds  in  bank,  528. 


413  Vice  Grand. 

TRUSTS  AND  TRUST  FUNDS.  Doctrine  of  trust  funds 
how  far  applicable  to  funds  of  R.  Lodge,  1363,  1364. 
Home  funds  are,  1617. 

TURNER  J.  B.  LODGE  CASE.    960,  1130. 

UNMARRIED.     See  Marriage. 

UNION  LABEL.    Not  permissible  on  Lodge  stationery,  38. 

VACANCY  AND  VACATING.  When  filled  by  pro  tem- 
pore appointment,  96.  Suspension  of  officer  vacates 
office,  405.  Vacancy  how  filled,  429.  May  be  filled 
by  a  pro  tempore  Noble  Grand,  449.  Filled  by  Vice 
Grand  when,  458.  Officers  elected  to  fill  entitled  to 
honors  when,  508,  509.  Installation  into  higher  office 
vacates  lower  one,  587.  Declared  by  the  installing 
oflficer,  615,  616,  617,  635.  Installation  to  fill,  632.  De- 
claring and  filling  vacancy  by  Lodge,  674  to  676,  incl. 
In  office  in  R.  Assembly,  1515. 

VARIANCE.  Must  be  none  between  charges,  evidence, 
and  judgment,  1049. 

VENUE.  Changed  when  all  members  qualified  to  pre- 
side are  prejudiced,  1032.  Laws  relating  to,  1115  to 
1125,  incl.  Depositions,  1126.  Judgment  and  appeal, 
1127,  1128. 

VETERAN  JEWEL.      See   Jewels. 

VICE  GRAND.  May  call  special  meetings,  when,  131, 
389,  460.  Inspects  ballot,  323,  324,  329,  330,  350.  Not 
required  to  surrender  chair  to  team,  378,  392.  Past 
Chaplain  eligible,  423,  424,  558,  576.  Communicates 
P.  W.  when,  443.  Constitutional  duties  of,  452.  Ap- 
points his  Supporters,  453,  and  minority  of  all  com- 
mittees, 452.  Performs  duties  of  N.  G.  when,  452,  454, 
456,  458,  459,  460,  461,  468,  469.  Wears  regalia  of 
N.  G.  when,  455.  Cannot  deliver  Past  Noble  Grand's 
charge,  457.  Elective  or  appointive  office  qualifies  for, 
462,  463,  464,  550,  559,  579.  By  whom  chair  filled 
if  absent,  465,  467,  547.  May  not  open  another  Lodge, 
466.  Not  expedient  to  be  Trustee,  524.  Who  eligible 
to  be,  546,  462,  463,  464,  450,  550,  551,  559,  561,  563, 
569.  Sitting  Vice  Grand  not  eligible  to  office  of  No- 
ble Grand  when,  552.    When  qualified  members  refuse, 


Vice  President.  414 


561,  570,  572,  589.  P.  Vice  Grand  of  another  Lodge, 
563,  578.  Who  eligible  in  new  or  revived  Lodge,  568. 
Resignation  of  Noble  Grand  does  not  make  V.  G. 
eligible,  571,  except  572.  May  not  be  Deputy,  698. 
Wear  a  Noble  Grand's  regalia  when,  733.  Complaint 
filed  with  when,  892,  906. 

VICE-PRESIDENT.  Duties,  powers  and  prerogatives, 
1528,  1529. 

VISITING  CARD.    See  Cards. 

VISITING  AND  VISITORS.  Visitor  may  speak  when, 
108.  May  not  be  introduced  by  Lodge  Deputy,  701. 
Generally,  1772  to  1777,  incl.  On  card  or  official  cer- 
tificate, 1778  to  1806,  incl.  On  introduction,  1807  to 
1815.  Formalities  of,  1816  to  1828.  In  another  juris- 
diction, 1829.  In  own  jurisdiction,  1830  to  1834,  incl. 
To  S.  G.  L.,  1835. 

VISITING  COMMITTEE.  Report  of  may  be  written 
or  oral,  105.     Duties  of,  539  to  542,  incl. 

VOTE  AND  VOTING.  In  Assembly.  Majority  vote 
decides  all  questions,  1543.  Vote  on  roll  call,  1544, 
1545. 

Generally  in  B.  Lodge.  Not  counted  unless  cast,  447. 
All  must  vote,  447.  Illegal  vote  at  election  of  oflfi- 
cers,  590.  Blank  ballots  in  election  of  officers,  651, 
657,  661.  Not  lost  on  account  of  arrearages  when,  762. 
Delinquent  for  dues  loses  vote  when,  772.  Manner 
of,  1427  to  1430,  incl.  Who  may  vote,  1431  to  1434, 
incl.  Where  vote  cast,  1435  to  1437,  incl.  Canvassing 
result,  1438  to  1442,  incl. 

On  Propositions  for  Memhershij).     See  Ballot. 

In  Lodge  Trials.  When  and  how  taken,  1020,  1037, 
1047,  incl. 

Tie  Vote.  How  determined,  433,  438.  In  election  of 
officers,  654,  666. 

Majority  Vote.  Grants  visitor  right  to  speak,  108.  To 
elect  members,  325.     What  is,  656,  672. 

Plurality  Vote.    What  is,  672. 

Two-thirds  Vote.  Annuls  election  to  membership 
when,  159. 


415  Y.  M.  C.  A. 

VOUCHER.  Signed  by  N.  G.  433,  435.  Attested  by 
Secretary,  470. 

VOUCHING.     Not  permitted,  302. 

WAIVER.  Of  notice  to  pass  on  testimony,  1003.  Of 
right  to  make  defense  to  charges  precludes  contempt 
proceedings,  1100. 

WARDEN.    Of  Assembly.     Duties  of,  1530. 

WARRANT.     See  Voucher. 

WHITE  PERSON.    221,  222,  224. 

WIDOW.  Eligible  to  membership  in  Rebekah  Lodge, 
261.  Support  of,  not  charity,  but  legal  obligation, 
1647. 

WIDOWS'  AND  ORPHANS'  FUND.  How  established 
and  purpose  of,  1344.  When  merged,  1345.  Appro- 
priations from  for  Homes,  1346.  See  Special  Funds, 
1388  to  1398,  incl. 

WIFE.  When  eligible,  224,  237,  238,  239,  240,  241,  250, 
252,  259,  260.  Competent  witness  when,  976,  977.  Re- 
instatement of,  1136,  1138,  1141,  1142. 

WITHDRAWAL.     Of  petition,  361  to  365,  incl. 

WITNESSES.  Obligation  of,  967.  Certificate  of,  968. 
Defendant  is  a  competent  witness,  975.  Wife  com- 
petent when,  976,  977.     Contempt  of,  1129,  1130. 

WORK  OF  THE  ORDER.  Burlesque  on  not  permitted, 
59.  Should  not  refer  to  sectarianism,  90.  Past  Noble 
Grand's  charge  when  delivered  by  Noble  Grand,  391. 
Printed  on  cards,  421,  777.  P.  Noble  Grand's  charge 
cannot  be  delivered  by  V.  G.,  454,  457.  Charges 
memorized  when,  677.  Use  of  unauthorized  is  offense, 
776,  778.  Printing,  writing,  publishing,  using,  or  ex- 
hibiting unauthorized  work,  811,  887.  Writing  parts 
of  ritual,  887.     Generally,  1836  to  1859,  incl. 

YEAS  AND  NAYS.  How  taken  and  recorded  in  Rebekah 
Assembly,  1544,  1545.  How  taken  and  recorded  in  Re- 
bekah Lodge,  1427. 

YOUNG  MENS'  CHRISTIAN  ASSOCIATION.  Appro- 
priation to  not  permitted,  1362. 


REPORT  OF  COMMITTEE 

ON  COMPILATION 
OF  ILLINOIS  REBEKAH  DIGEST 


To  the  President  and  ^demhers  of  the  Reoekah  State 
Assemhly  of  Illinois: 

We,  your  Committee  appointed  for  the  purpose 
of  compiling  the  Rebekah  laws  of  Illinois,  have  care- 
fully examined  the  accompanying  volume,  and 
unanimously  approved  the  same. 

Dated  this  16th  day  of  November,  1908. 
Fraternally  submitted, 
LOLA  L.  RICKARD,  P.  P. 
MARTHA  J.  VAN  DUZER,  P.  P. 
NELLIE  L.  HARRIS,  P.  P. 
V.  CATHERINE  THOMAS,  P.  P. 
IDA  M.  KEWLEY. 

Springfield,  November  16,  1908. 


OFFICE  OF  PRESIDENT, 
Rebekah  State  Assembly  of  Illinois 

Cairo,  III.,  November  17,  1908. 
The   above    report,   submitted   by    the    Special 
Committee  for  compiling  the  Rebekah  laws  of  Illi- 
nois, is  hereby  approved. 

MARGARET  E.  WELDON, 

President. 


